48 hours in Brisbane for couples

Planning a short visit in Brisbane? Well, you’re in luck! The city is constantly evolving, with hidden gems, new restaurants, natural surrounds aplenty and adventure experiences readily available. Make a weekend of discovering everything Brisbane has to offer.

FRIDAY
Check in at the W Brisbane Hotel
If you’re looking for somewhere a little different to stay, The W Hotel design pays tribute to the local indigenous culture and the river that defines Brisbane. Offering views from South Bank to Mount Coot-tha, the W Brisbane boasts three bars and restaurants (including the renowned Three Blue Ducks from The Farm at Byron Bay), large pool in addition to modern-eclectic guest rooms.

Evening Story Bridge Adventure Climb
Take a deep breath and feel the rush as you climb the glorious Story Bridge. One of only three bridge adventure climbs in the world, you’ll be rewarded for your bravado with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the River City as the sun sets. The two-and-a-half-hour climb is nothing short of spectacular. 

Dinner at Fish Lane
Head to Fish Lane to explore this art-filled, fairy-light covered laneway that functions as a hidden artery connecting high culture, great wine, and delectable restaurants in South Brisbane. Here you’ll find authentic Italian at Julius Pizzeria, mouth-watering East Asian cuisine at Southside, delicious Vietnamese at Hello Please, Thai fusion at Chu the Phat, or European classics at La Lune. And that’s just the eateries. Once you reach the end of the laneway, turn around and pinball your way back to the city by dipping into the bars along the way. Or continue on to adventures in West End’s night life, your call. 

SATURDAY
Tuck into breakfast
Sleep-ins are mighty tempting, but it’s well worth getting up early to beat the crowds for breakfast in one of Brisbane’s hippest dining suburbs: Newstead. Whether you’re after something healthful, decadent, or just a great cup of coffee, the riverside suburb has it all. For premium coffee and prime people-watching, check out Salt on Commercial Road. For more of Brisbane’s best breakfasts in Newstead, check out King Arthur, Industry Beans, Nodo, and Kin+Co. Afterwards you can always meander towards the boutiques on James Street, or journey on towards the river. 

Take a stroll
From Newstead, it’s just a few blocks to the start of one of Brisbane’s best walks. Winding from the Teneriffe Ferry Terminal all the way to the city, the Riverwalk takes you past the refurbished Woolstores. It stretches over 6km of boardwalk, but don’t worry if you haven’t packed your walking shoes – this leg of the journey is only 2km and there’s plenty of refreshment waiting for you at the end.

Explore the markets for lunch
Every Saturday morning, the forecourt of the Powerhouse hosts the Jan Powers Farmers Market. Over 120 stalls cover everything from fresh fruit, vegetarian, artisanal breads and gourmet pantry items. Alternatively, load up with a market lunch. A slew of stalls offer everything from omelettes and crepes to the crispest rosti you’ll ever have. They even have a specialty coffee cart if you just wanted some charge to sip on while you wander. 

Explore QAGOMA Art Exhibition
At the top of South Bank, the Cultural Centre is home to Queensland’s largest galleries and library and Australia's most popular museum. QAGOMA consists of the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art. The Queensland Art Gallery houses more traditional mediums and exhibitions while the Gallery of Modern Art is where modernism meets the abstract. Head to QAGOMA to see the latest exhibition ‘Air’, which showcases immersive and large-scale works by leading international and Australian artists exploring the cultural, ecological and political dimensions of air.

Drinks on the Water
For a taste of Brisbane’s finest riverside dining, head to Howard Smith Wharves. Enjoy the best seat in the house right under the Story Bridge, on the edge of the sparkling Brisbane River. Sitting right on the water’s edge, choose from casual dining at Felons Brewery, to upscale cocktails at Mr Percivals, to the suite of smart restaurants. Try some authentic Greek at Greca, or funky Japanese at Yoko Dining, or if you’re feeling fancy, fine dine on Cantonese at Stanley Restaurant or traditional yet trendy Italian at Ciao Papi. From breakfast, to lunch, to the perfect afternoon beverage, to dancing the night away under stars (or lounging on a bean bag), the Wharves has it all.

SUNDAY
Explore Tangalooma Island Resort
Your next adventure awaits as you head to paradise for an idyllic island day trip to Tangalooma Island Resort. Head to Holt Street Wharf where you’ll catch the 75-minute ferry to Tangalooma Island Resort. With your swimmers, your sunnies, spare shorts and tee, your afternoon will be spent riding quad bikes over the sand dunes, feeding the wild dolphins, and chilling out on the beach enjoying drinks and canapés as the sun sets.

Fly Singapore Airlines to Brisbane all-in fare to Brisbane from Rs 58,000.

Plan your Brisbane holiday today!