Romantic Escape: A Couple’s Guide to Brisbane

Brisbane is the ultimate urban playground for couples seeking a dash of adventure and a whole lot of romance. Whether you're new lovebirds or seasoned partners in crime, this city has something to set your hearts aflutter. From candlelit dinners in charming wine bars to mini golf showdowns and breezy boat picnics, we've curated a list of experiences that'll have you smiling from ear to ear. So, hold hands, steal kisses, and let the good times roll on in sunny Brisbane. And, if you need a base we have just the place.

A classic dinner for two

Candlelit tables, soft music… the clichéd romantic dinner date isn’t for everyone, and the beauty of a big city comes in its choice of restaurants. Brisbane has the recipe for your perfect date night. Take your better half for steak at Walter’s, slip into City Winery to expand your vino knowledge over a cheeseboard, take your love sky-high at Iris Rooftop, or seek out cheap-and-cheerful Korean food on Elizabeth Street. Whatever your date style, you can wine, dine, and let love blossom with every bite. 

Picnic at the Point

While Kangaroo Point is no hidden gem, it’s a top spot to let love bloom while admiring stunning riverside views. But here's the twist: build a picnic basket with pastries from Christian Jacques Bakery, an authentic French artisan bakery. If you can’t fly to France, bring the romance of France to you. The croissants here are slow-fermented over two days and use premium French butter. Lay out your picnic blanket atop the cliffs and savour sweet éclairs and buttery quiches while basking in the sunshine and getting lost in deep conversations.

Breakfast, markets and riverside strolls

Good morning, lovebirds! Brisbane is an early riser, so start your day with a delectable breakfast at one of the cute cafes in Teneriffe or New Farm, such as Industry Beans, Kin & Co, or Blue Bear. Let your taste buds tango with eggs benedict, fluffy pancakes, and a strong flat white. Order another coffee takeaway then stroll hand-in-hand along the riverside at New Farm Park. If it’s a Saturday, drop by the Powerhouse Farmers Markets to peruse artisan goodies and buy produce from local farmers.

Romance blooms in the Botanic Gardens

Take a date with nature and find yourself wandering winding paths framed by vibrant flowers and exotic plants. Step into the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mt Coot-tha, a green oasis of 56 hectares just a stone’s throw from the city. Explore the colours, scents, and textures of native Australian plants, and admire tiny works of art at the Bonsai House. Touch and smell at the sensory garden, and find your zen in the Japanese garden. Finally, make your way into the hot and humid tropical dome – a steamy place to take a selfie!

Game on! With friendly competition

Love to laugh and get a little bit competitive? These Brisbane date ideas are all fun and games. How about an adventurous round of mini golf at Victoria Point? Grab a drink and a club and set off to out putt your date. The views over Brisbane City are just a bonus! Or stay indoors at Holey Moley, where you'll putt your way through an out-of-this-world mini golf course amid neon lights, funky decor, and fruity cocktails.

If golf isn’t your thing, how about darts? With a rustic pub vibe, Oche is a cosy spot to challenge your date to a friendly dart-throwing competition. Cheer, high-five, and maybe even indulge in a playful wager. There’s no cheating – the scores are automatically tallied with a high-tech digital counter. Good luck!

Electric romance on the Brisbane River

Ahoy, adventurers! Here’s a date to float your boat – literally. Rent a GoBoat and set sail on the picturesque Brisbane River. This electrifying aquatic escapade (yes, electric boats!) is a fun way to explore the city and enjoy a picnic. Best of all, you don’t need a boat license AND you can bring your pets along. So let the river's gentle current guide your journey, and pack a spread of cheese, dips, and bubbles. Whether you're steering or snuggling, this date will make waves.

Sip, splatter and spark romance with an artistic adventure

Unleash your inner Picasso with a twist of romance? A Paint and Sip session is a chance to let your creativity run wild, further enhanced by liquid courage. Share giggles, colorful strokes, and maybe even a few playful paint splatters with your partner. By the end, you'll have a masterpiece to cherish (or hide in the garage), and a night of love and laughter to remember. Cheers to creativity and connection!

Bowling and beyond

Lace up those sexy bowling shoes and unleash your inner pinslinger at Strike Bowling alley.  As the neon lights dance, and the music pumps, you and your partner will battle it out on the lanes. Will you be the bowling champ or the charming underdog with a surprise strike? There’s nothing like a little competition to keep things fun and flirty. Get ready to roll your way into each other's hearts!

Soak up a steamy spa date

Ready to turn up the heat on your date night? How about a couples spa day, where relaxation meets romance? Shed your cares and your clothes at Soak Bathhouse in West End, and step into one of the rooftop spas and baths to let your tensions melt away. Or over in Woolloongabba, sweat it out at Cenote Casa Bathhouse where you can move between spas, a magnesium plunge pool, an essential-oil-infused steam room, and a cedar dry sauna. This sizzling date will leave you both feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and rekindled.

Planning a romantic escape to Brisbane as we speak? Find the perfect place to rest your head with Oaks Hotels. We have 11 modern stays from cosy hotels to serviced apartments and suites.