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.

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.

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.

More travel plans

Families Unleash Fun in Brisbane: Your 4-Day Adventure!

A trip to Brisbane, Australia promises a delightful family experience with a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the lush South Bank Parklands, offering a variety of kid-friendly activities including a man-made beach, playgrounds, and picnic spots. Don't miss the opportunity to cuddle koalas at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary, where kids can also hand-feed kangaroos and encounter other native Australian wildlife.

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.

A 5-Day Romantic Escape to Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane offers plenty of romantic hotspots for couples looking for an idyllic getaway. With scenic views of the Brisbane River and stunning botanical gardens, take a stroll through the South Bank Parklands hand-in-hand. For those seeking adventure, book a hot air balloon ride over the city, followed by a private champagne breakfast.

Brisbane in 4 Days: An Adventure Awaits!

Brisbane offers a unique experience to tourists with its perfect blend of urban and natural surroundings. With sunny weather all year round, visitors can explore the city's attractions such as the South Bank Parklands, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and Story Bridge Adventure Climb. Additionally, tourists can indulge in the city's culinary scene and enjoy entertainment, shopping, and nightlife options.