Maximize Your Brisbane Experience with GoTravelDaily: Affordable Tips
Brisbane’s selling points are many: enviable weather, laid-back locals, and dynamic culinary and cultural scenes – all without the hassles of faster-paced Sydney and Melbourne. While the city (like much of Australia) is no traveler’s bargain basement, a little know-how can help you enjoy a memorable stay without overspending. Follow these tips to enhance your Brisbane experience for less.
Buy Your Airtrain Tickets Online
Brisbane Airport is Australia’s third busiest, with budget carriers like Jetstar and Rex providing budget-friendly flights to various Australian destinations. If you’re landing at the airport, the Airtrain conveniently connects the domestic and international terminals to Brisbane’s popular districts, including dining-and-nightlife hotspot Fortitude Valley, the city center (CBD), and attraction-filled South Bank. You can save on the standard $37 adult return fare by purchasing your ticket online for just $28.
Opt for the Free CityHopper Instead of CityCat
Brisbane’s CityCat catamarans require a Go Card or pre-purchased ticket. However, the CityHopper ferries are free! They may cover less ground than CityCats, yet they stop at main inner-city riverfront locations, including South Bank, the CBD, and New Farm. Moreover, they offer breathtaking views of the skyline and Story Bridge, making every trip a highlight.
Enjoy a South Bank Art Crawl for Free
The family-friendly Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) is Australia’s largest contemporary art museum, emphasizing artists from the Asia-Pacific region. While some temporary exhibitions require tickets, general gallery access is free, as is the dedicated Children’s Art Gallery.
A quick stroll takes you to the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG), which also offers free access to its permanent collection, featuring works from the Aboriginal Hermannsburg School and notable non-Indigenous Australian artists.
Both venues are close to vibrant street-art hotspots such as Fish Lane and The Pillars Project, showcasing large-scale murals created by top artists.
Discover Affordable Riverside Street Food and Asian Classics
For fresh, affordable dining, explore simple Asian eateries. In the CBD, take-away Banh Mi Now serves exceptional Vietnamese baguettes for around $12. In Fortitude Valley, dive into hearty bowls of phở at The Vietnamese Restaurant for just $10. Across the street, Chinese-Malaysian joint Jimmy’s Superbowl offers lunch specials, pairing a delicious laksa with a beer for around $20.
For a hipper vibe, ride the CityCat to Eat Street Northshore, a weekly global street-food village featuring live music and a festive atmosphere (cash recommended). Alternatively, check out Remy’s in Paddington for 2-for-1 burgers (including vegan options) from 3.30pm to 6.30pm on Sundays.
Indulge at High-End Cafes in Brisbane
If a $150 degustation at Joy or Elska is out of reach, savor Australian culinary innovations at produce-driven cafes like Newstead’s Industry Beans and Nodo. Most dishes are under $25, with delightful flavors such as porcini-dusted eggs paired with gourmet sides, or fried chicken with a unique twist. In West End, vegan cafe Grown offers a delicious Chef’s Choice banquet for $35.
Experience Free Live Music in Brisbane
Brisbane boasts a rich live-music scene with famous bands like Violent Soho and Powderfinger originating from the city. While you may want to spend $50 or more for gigs at venues like The Tivoli, equally revered The Triffid hosts free independent talent in its beer garden. Free nightly gigs run from Wednesday to Sunday at Archive Beer Boutique, and the City Sounds program offers a variety of free outdoor concerts year-round.
Stay Cool with Inner-City Pools
If your accommodations lack a pool or the nearby Gold or Sunshine Coasts aren’t an option, pack your swimwear and enjoy Streets Beach, a free lagoon-style pool at South Bank Parklands. Alternatively, the Valley Pool caters to both casual swimmers and serious athletes for an affordable $6 admission (children $4.40, family pass from $12.90).
Catch Movies on a Budget in Brisbane
When subtropical storms approach, seek shelter in a cinema. The Cineplex chain screens both Hollywood blockbusters and independent films for just $8.50 (children $5.50), significantly lower than the typical $17-$20 ticket prices. Their ‘Off-Peak Sessions’ (weekdays before 6pm and Tuesday nights) are even cheaper, with adult tickets at merely $7.
For a luxurious experience, check out the adults-only Deluxe cinemas at $12. To enhance your outing, sail on the CityCat to the Hawthorne ferry stop and catch a film at the classic Hawthorne Cineplex or its upscale counterpart, Hawthorne Deluxe. For free screenings of classic, cult, and experimental films, explore GOMA’s in-house Cinématèque.
Save on Accommodation with Low-Cost Hostels
Although Brisbane’s low season (December-March) can be hot and humid, it offers excellent accommodation deals. For budget-friendly lodging, consider one of the city’s hostels, where dorm beds range from $20 to $40. Many hostels also offer private rooms with shared or private bathrooms. Notably, design-savvy Brisbane Quarters includes a pool and breakfast amenities.
Furthermore, Airbnb rentals present a viable alternative to midrange hotels. Some properties feature an onsite pool and/or gym, while most include Wi-Fi, washing machines, and kitchenettes. This option not only reduces laundry and dining costs, but it also encourages shopping at fantastic farmers’ markets like West End Markets, Powerhouse Farmers Market, and Brisbane City Markets. Always book accommodations in advance for the widest selection of options.
Utilize Brisbane’s Transport System with a Go Card
Taxis and rideshare services can be costly, so consider utilizing Brisbane’s integrated TransLink network of buses, trains, and ferries. An adult single-ride paper ticket for Zone 1 costs $4.90, making the electronic TransLink Go Card (starting balance adult/child $10/5) a more economical choice if you plan on taking multiple rides. Simply add credit for over 30% savings on individual trips.
Travel during off-peak hours (weekdays between 8.30 am and 3.30 pm; after 7 pm; or anytime on weekends and public holidays) to save an additional 20%. Children with a Go Card can travel for free on Saturdays and Sundays.
Alternatively, consider the go seeQ card, which allows unlimited travel on trains, buses, and ferries for three days ($79; child $40) or five days ($129; child $65). This card includes two Airtrain journeys, easily purchased from Brisbane Airport train stations.
If you require a taxi between 11 pm and 5 am on Friday or Saturday, choose a NightLink flat-fare taxi. Available from dedicated ranks in the CBD and Fortitude Valley, these options may often be cheaper than standard taxis.
Exploring Daily Costs in Brisbane
Brisbane offers numerous opportunities to enjoy its vibrant culture, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences at a cost-effective price. Embrace the charm of this energetic city without breaking the bank!
