YHA Brisbane Review
The YHA in Brisbane isn’t just for backpackers. This accommodation has a LOT going for it in terms of location, affordability and amenities.
Fun features were the uniquely painted elevators in which a shark on the floor appears to eat you while you ride the elevator, and another showing an aerial view from underfoot.
Expect to be greeted with murals of iconic Australian scenes when stepping out of the elevator. Let the kids loose with a camera to have some fun with them!
Family Rooms at the YHA Brisbane
In addition to the standard dorm-style rooms, the YHA Brisbane has two types of private rooms suitable for families.
Families can only stay in rooms with private bathrooms at the YHA in Brisbane. As a result, this leaves the option of a room with a double bed and bunk bed configuration, or a two bunk bed configuration which sleeps four.
All rooms have great WiFi and most have lockers for your gear.
The private bathroom was clean with decent water pressure, but don’t forget this is a hostel so you will need to bring your own towels and soap. If you don’t have one already, get your travel towel here.
Kitchen/Meals
YHA Brisbane has a large, clean shared kitchen for self-catering on the top level. I was impressed with how clean this was!
There is also a bar on this level, a cafe on the ground floor and decent restaurants within walking distance.
Grounds
There are no grassy surrounds as YHA Brisbane is in the heart of the city HOWEVER, there is a great pool on the top floor and also a cool games room with some retro video games. If you can’t go without TV, there is also a shared TV room.
Location
YHA Brisbane’s location is one of its best features. Located in Southbank, the cultural heart of Brisbane, it’s within walking or cycling distance (or a quick taxi) to major attractions such as Suncorp Stadium, Museum and Science Centre, South Bank Beach and Southbank Parklands.
It’s also one of the best places to view the Brisbane Festival’s Riverfire fireworks held every September.
Would I Recommend YHA Brisbane?
Absolutely! YHA Brisbane is a great choice for families on a budget or any family that doesn’t need five stars to have a good time. It’s clean, modern and has great rooftop views!
YouTube Clip of YHA Brisbane
Looking for More Awesome Family Holiday Destinations?
For more information on visiting Brisbane with kids, head on over to my Brisbane page. Head on back to the home page for inspiration on destinations worldwide.
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Essential Information for Your Brisbane Family Holiday
Best time to visit Brisbane
April and May is often touted as the best time to visit as the weather is mild and you can avoid school holiday crowds. However, it’s not hot enough to swim during these months which is a real downer for me.
Timing your Brisbane holiday with the Brisbane festival in September is a great idea. Although more crowded, there is HEAPS going on in and around the city, including the Riverfire fireworks.
Where to stay in Brisbane
We loved the Brisbane City YHA for its location and value for money. If you wish to cook for yourself, the communal kitchen is massive, and it also features a games room and a rooftop pool and bar. There are some decent options for families here.
If five-star luxury with all the works is more your style, find a great deal on bookings.com here!
Getting to Brisbane
Getting to Brisbane is pretty straightforward. You can fly into the international or domestic airport, embark on an epic road trip through Queensland, or travel via train or bus.
- Search for a great deal on flights on JetRadar.
- Search car hire across major brands here.
- Book your bus here.
Getting around Brisbane
There are a number of options for getting around Brisbane but first things first – let’s get from the airport to your hotel!
- Book your private airport transfer here.
Public transport
Brisbane Visitors can purchase a cashless ticket called the Go Card which can be used on the city’s buses, trains, CityCats and ferry services. Get your card from the Brisbane Visitor Information Centre or at most local news agencies.
The Translink Journey Planner or Google Maps can be used to plan your route.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus
The Hop-on Hop-off Bus is a tourist bus that stops at 15 major locations throughout Brisbane. Tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours from first use and you basically just hop on and off when you feel like it. Family passes are available.
- Book your Hop-on Hop-off bus tickets here.
City loop bus
The City Loop Bus is free and runs every 10 minutes, stopping at popular spots throughout its loop. More information on the City Loop Bus can be found here.
Bicycle hire
If the kids are old enough to peddle on their own, visit one of the 150 CityCycle hire stations to get around. This is a fun option for older kids!
Car hire
Compare car rental prices across major brands here. Be aware that unless your hotel offers parking, you will pay a small fortune to house the vehicle overnight.
Taxi
Taxi ranks can be found at the Brisbane international and domestic airports, as well as throughout Brisbane City.
Black & White Cabs: 13 32 22.
Attractions and tours
There is plenty of things to do and see around Brisbane. Highlights with kids include the Museum and Science Centre, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Streets Beach and the surrounding National Parks.
- Book your tickets to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary here.
- Book your Brisbane River cruise here.
- Book your Moreton Island Tangalooma Dolphin Adventure here.
WiFi
Most hotels in the city will offer free Wifi. However, if you wish to take control of your own connection, a Portable WiFi for Australia can be delivered directly to your hotel in Brisbane.
Book your portable WiFi here.
Brisbane holiday travel guides
Check out the official Visit Brisbane Page here.
