The hype
Travelers universally praise the location and the 'Live N Dream' beds, but many wish the pool area was a bit larger.
Novotel Brisbane South Bank
$120-190/ night
Book this if You want the slickest, most reliable 4.5-star base for a convention or South Bank family trip without the CBD price tag.
Why People Love It
- Walking distance to the Convention Centre (BCEC) and QPAC
- Direct access to the pool from ground-floor 'Pool Access' rooms
- Breakfast buffet that actually includes barista-made coffee
Quick Take: It's a textbook modern Novotel—clean, functional, and efficient—but the 'limited parking' warning is no joke.
Reviewed by @gabrielfelixphotography: I checked into this suite at Novotel South Bank and was blown away by the space. The floor-to-ceiling windows give you an insane view of the CBD, and that bathtub was the highlight of my trip. It’s the perfect mix of business and relaxation.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'city view' rooms often just look at other buildings; the 'park view' rooms are the real winners for scenery and quiet.
- You are attending a conference at the BCEC (it's literally across the street)
- You have kids who will love the ground-floor rooms with direct pool gate access
- You prefer a firm, high-quality mattress over a soft, sinking one
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily and efficient. Guests consistently rate cleanliness as the hotel's strongest point.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Modern grout and glass are well-maintained; no recurring mold issues found.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition. The hotel opened in 2018 and still feels new.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp. No complaints about wear or stains.
- Odors & scents: Neutral and fresh in rooms; main entrance can smell of cigarette smoke.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway foot traffic
- Doors slamming
- Street noise on lower floors (Cordelia St side)
Before you book
Good to know
- The pool is outdoor and heated, but it's 20m long—good for laps, but can get crowded with kids.
- A credit card surcharge of ~1.4% applies to payments.
- There is no 'resort fee', but a $5 tray charge applies to room service.
What to pack
- Goggles for the 20m lap pool
- Earplugs if you're a light sleeper (for the hallway noise)
- Walking shoes—West End's best dining is a 10-15 min walk away
Room Genie
Best picks
- Premier 'N' Room, Park View (High Floor) for the best quiet and green views
- King 'N' Room with Pool Access (Ground Floor) for families who want a semi-private patio vibe
Rooms to avoid
- Low floor rooms facing Cordelia Street (traffic noise)
- Rooms near the elevators (hallway noise bleed)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor (Level 8 or 9) facing Musgrave Park for a quieter stay. If possible, please ensure it is away from the elevators.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the 20m outdoor pool is heated year-round, making it usable even in Brisbane's mild winter.
How much is parking?
On-site secure parking is ~$38 AUD per day, but spots are very limited. Overflow parking is at the BCEC nearby for ~$30-35 AUD.
Does the hotel have balconies?
Most rooms do NOT have balconies. Only the specific 'Pool Access' rooms on the ground floor have a private terrace.
Is breakfast included?
Not standard, but often bundled. If paying separately, it's ~$39 AUD for adults. Kids under 16 eat free with a paying adult.
How far is the Convention Centre?
It is practically next door—a 2-minute walk via the laneway access.
Is there a gym?
Yes, a 24-hour fitness center with modern cardio equipment and free weights.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the hotel breakfast one morning and walk 10 mins to 'West End Coffee House' for their famous Thai-style breakfast options.
- ✨
If the hotel garage is full, the BCEC parking is actually cheaper and only a 3-minute walk away.
- ✨
The 'Pool Access' rooms have a private gate to the pool deck—perfect for parents who want to relax on their own terrace while watching kids swim.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'City View' is often just a view of the back of other buildings unless you are on the very top floors.
💡The main entrance doubles as the smoking area, so you will smell cigarettes every time you enter.
💡Room service has a $5 tray charge and a hefty 15% surcharge on public holidays.
💡The bathroom sliding doors are not fully soundproof, so privacy is limited if sharing a room.
💡There is a 'Lego Butler' service available for families (ask at reception).
Local Playbook
Map
See where Novotel Brisbane South Bank is located and what's nearby.