Explore Queensland with a car rental from Brisbane downtown
The glittering Queensland capital of Brisbane - and the cities and stunning natural areas around it - have a whole lot to offer the discerning traveller. You have an almost overwhelming amount of ground to cover, but the numerous options for car hire Brisbane downtown will help you make the most of the cultural and natural gems in and around the city.
The bar and restaurant scene in Brisbane is renowned, and many of the culinary highlights are in downtown Brisbane - also known as the Central Business District (CBD) - clustered around the waterfront. The sophisticated city is home to several museums and galleries - and there’s a whole host of sandy beaches nearby. You don’t have to venture far to find yourself in the vineyard either.
Book the best car rental in Brisbane downtown with Airport Rentals for access to our exclusive offers and impeccable round-the-clock customer service. We have more than 50,000 pick-up locations around the globe, so wherever your road trip takes you, there’s always a convenient Airport Rentals hub for your pick up or drop off.
Our customers’ peace of mind is of the utmost importance, so we offer free cancellation and instant confirmation on most of our cars. What’s more, we don’t bother with booking fees or credit card charges: the price you see advertised is the one you’ll pay. And if you encounter any issues, our customer service team are waiting by the phone 24/7 to help you out.
A quick guide to Brisbane downtown
Brisbane is unapologetically hip, and the sky-scraping cityscape is breathtaking. Culture vultures will feel at home in this city of world-class galleries, including the renowned Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art. There are also plenty of top shopping opportunities - look out for Fortitude Valley, which is brimming with independent boutiques - and award-winning restaurants. Hop on a boat to explore Brisbane’s stunning sandy islands, perfect for snorkelling.
Brisbane Airport is located 15 kilometres from central Brisbane. As well as welcoming international flights, this airport also operates domestically. With Brisbane's strategic location, it is also easy to hop to the next city on your Australia bucket list with a car rental from Brisbane Airport.
Guide to driving a car hire in Brisbane downtown
Getting from Brisbane downtown to Brisbane Airport in a rental car
● Get onto Elizabeth St in central Brisbane.
● Continue onto Eagle St.
● Use the right two lanes to turn slightly right onto Queen St.
● Continue onto Wickham St.
● Turn left onto State Route 15/Gipps St and then follow State Route 15.
● Use the left lane to take the M7/Airport Link tunnel ramp and follow the Airport Link to Brisbane Airport.
Car hire Brisbane downtown driving tips
If you’re visiting from abroad, refer to our guide to driving in Australia and take note of these local tips.
● The speed limit on built-up areas of Queensland is 50 km/h unless signs indicate otherwise. Roads that carry traffic across towns or through suburbs have clearly signed limits of 60 km/h or higher.
● Toll roads are in operation within the city limits of Brisbane, as well as in Sydney and Melbourne. All toll roads are cashless, so payment must be made via an electronic tag or pass.
● If your driving licence is not in English, you must carry a recognised English translation of it while driving.
Parking your car hire Brisbane downtown
You shouldn’t struggle to find parking in Brisbane downtown - there are a plethora of options available to motorists. Some of the cheapest deals in the CBD can be found at Roma Street Parkland, which offers special low-price rental deals such as its Early Bird Special.
CITY INFO
Accommodation in Brisbane downtown
There’s a wealth of accommodation options in Brisbane CBD. Here are some of our favourites:
● Stamford Plaza Brisbane - Gaze out at stunning views of the Brisbane River from your luxurious room, or head to the sleek outdoor pool for a sundowner.
● Brisbane Skytower - Contemporary urban apartments with incredible city views are on offer at this CBD institution, which is just a short walk from Brisbane’s parks and entertainment district.
● Treasury Brisbane - This grand heritage property houses an award-winning luxury hotel peppered with antique furnishings and luxurious touches.
Annual events in Brisbane downtown
Brisbane hosts a fantastic array of festivals every year. Check out the city’s events calendar to line up your itinerary.
● Brisbane Comedy Festival (February/March) - Like a laugh? Brisbane Comedy Festival - housed in an old power station-turned-theatre on the Brisbane River - hosts rip-roaring local and international talent.
● The Ekka (August) - The Royal Intercolonial Exhibition offers carnival rides, industry displays, fashion shows, agricultural competitions, and more - attracting approximately half a million visitors every year.
● Brisbane Festival (September) - This show-stopping International Arts Festival offers endless theatrical highlights around the city, incorporating dance, circus, theatre, comedy, opera, film, circus, and more.
Main attractions in Brisbane downtown
Hit the road to see all the city’s highlights in your car hire Brisbane downtown.
● Story Bridge - Brisbane’s iconic bridge is pedestrianised and offers stunning city views. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not climb it?
● Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art - This highly-acclaimed art gallery is unmissable and offers myriad exhibitions, including a number pertaining to Australia’s Indigenous heritage.
● Brisbane City Botanic Gardens - These heritage-listed botanic gardens provide a beautiful setting for a stroll amongst delightful flora and fauna - as well as a leafy concert space.
