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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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.

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Brisbane offers plenty of budget-friendly activities for tourists, including free museums, parks, and walking tours. Accommodation options such as hostels and budget hotels also provide affordable stays. The city's extensive public transportation system makes it easy and affordable to get around and explore various neighborhoods.

Brisbane Bliss: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure

A trip to Brisbane, Australia promises a delightful family-friendly experience. With its sunny weather, vibrant culture, and abundance of outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. Explore the iconic Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, take a leisurely stroll along South Bank Parklands, and enjoy the stunning views from the Wheel of Brisbane for a memorable and exciting family vacation.

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As a tourist visiting Brisbane, you can expect a bustling and lively Australian city experience. From exploring the city streets, taking the CityCat ferry along the Brisbane River, to admiring the serene views from the Mt Coot-tha lookout, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained. Additionally, visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and South Bank Parklands are must-see destinations full of wildlife and outdoor activities.