The Couple’s Guide to Sydney

A big city like Sydney has something for every type of couple. On a romantic long weekend or a week-long trip to Australia’s biggest city, you and your date could swim in the ocean, clink cocktails at the Opera House, cruise on the harbour, and chase nostalgic fun at Luna Park – and that’s just the beginning of romantic things to do in Sydney.  

Read on to discover almost a dozen ideas on how to spend your time and make memories together in this metropolitan oasis. Use our couple’s guide to Sydney to plan the ultimate mini-break at the city's most romantic places.

1. Get out on the water

Life in Sydney revolves around the water, from the expansive harbour to the crashing waves at Bondi Beach. If you take your significant other for a romantic cruise, time it to enjoy the sunset as you move from landmark to landmark, getting to know the city from the water while enjoying a wine and each other’s company. Better yet, lock in a boat with dinner service and make it a night to remember. It's one of the best romantic date night ideas in Sydney. If you’re travelling on a budget, take the ferry to Manly and back instead.  

2. Conquer BridgeClimb Sydney together

There’s no better way to deepen your bond than with an activity that scares you a little. Build trust and share the reward of summiting the world’s largest steel arch. 

When the two of you tackle the BridgeClimb Sydney you’ll soak up incredible 360-degree views over the city and the water, hearing facts and stories about the iconic landmark and its fascinating history. Make the Coathanger climb all the more romantic by opting for a sunset summit. This is such a fun date night idea in Sydney that will leave a lasting impression on each other's memories. 

3. Soak up culture at the gallery

Big cities mean big culture, and Sydney is home to the Art Gallery of NSW, a huge cultural institution that sees more than 40 exhibitions pass through its two buildings and art garden each year. 

Take your sweetheart for a sophisticated date and explore collections of Australian, European and Asian art. Better yet, on Wednesdays you can explore after dark until 10pm, adding a more romantic vibe as you wander the museum hallways filled with art and history, away from the daytime crowds.

4. A night at the opera (house)

Speaking of creativity and culture, there’s no more iconic Australian architectural masterpiece than the Sydney Opera House. Invite your date to dress up and take them for a night at the opera. 

If opera isn’t your thing, look at the schedule to find a variety of shows, performances, and concerts going on within the famed Opera House halls, designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon.

Before your show, make time for a drink at the open-air Opera Bar, set right on the waterfront. Here you can soak up views of both the bridge and opera house sails. It's one of the most romantic things to do in Sydney, and according to our Couple's guide, it's the perfect spot to bring your date, whether for drinks a performance or just to take a walk and admire the stunning views of the city. 

5. Eat breakfast with koalas

Join Blinky Bill and his mates for breakfast at Wild Life Sydney Zoo. This date with a difference will see the two of you enjoying a tasty buffet breakfast with these furry grey marsupials before wandering the zoo on a private tour ahead of opening hours. 

Explore the best bits of the zoo, sans crowds, and enjoy peace and quiet as you make friends with the resident kangaroos, wallabies and quokkas.

6. Embrace Sydney’s world-class food scene

If you’re a foodie (or just a big MasterChef fan), Sydney is your chance to dine at top spots helmed by big-name chefs and rising stars. Whether your idea of a romantic date night in Sydney involves dining a top shelf tasting menu with matched wines, or a more casual modern Asian meal of shared dishes and BYO wine, Sydney has it all. 

Book ahead if you want to claim a table at Neil Perry’s Margaret, the three-hatted Quay, or chef Josh Niland’s Saint Peter. One of our favourites is Restaurant Hubert, an underground diner draped in red velvet and romantic jazz vibes that serves up a French menu.

7. Walk off all that dining and drinking

Sydney’s fantastic food scene makes it easy to indulge – or overindulge – with your date. The antidote? Exercise, of course. 

You’re on holiday, so keep it scenic when you lace up your sneakers and head to the coast. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, a perfect couple's plan in Sydney, offers sunshine, sea breezes and ocean swims. Sweat it out along all or part of the paved oceanfront trail, stopping for a dip at famous Bondi Beach or for a good flat white or green juice. Don’t forget to slip, slop, slap.

8. Plan a special picnic, just for two

It’s easy to escape the concrete jungle in Sydney. Between the beautiful parks, hidden harbourside beaches, and coastal coves, there is always somewhere fairly quiet to enjoy with your shoes off and your feet in the sand or grass. 

Pick up gourmet goodies at the Saturday Carriageworks Farmers Market, or order takeaway and plan a low-cost casual picnic. In the heart of the city, the Royal Botanic Gardens offers 30 hectares of gardens that roll down to the harbour. The views? Excellent. 

While here, you can join a bush tucker or Aboriginal heritage tour with a First Nations guide, too.

9. Find old-fashioned fun at Luna Park

Set right on the harbourfront, Sydney’s retro Luna Park, which opened back in 1935, is the place to take a date for some old-fashioned fun. 

Enter through the amusement park’s famous smile and make tracks for the ferris wheel. As you circle up above the city, hold hands and enjoy views over Sydney and the water. Next up, grab some fairyfloss and play a carnival game to win your date a silly stuffed toy. The park is especially enchanting at night when it lights up with all the neon lights. It’s such a fun date night idea in Sydney if your significant other enjoys the vibrant amusement parks and wants to have a movie-like date! 

Be sure to check the weather in advance, as it is an outdoor park. It would be a shame to have your date ruined by the rain!

10. Take a thrill-seeking jet boat ride

Take your romantic weekend up a notch with a thrilling jet boat ride. A fun date for couples in Sydney who want an adrenaline rush. The Thunder Jet will set hearts racing as your high-speed vessel charges through the centre of Sydney’s Darling Harbour and Circular Quay. 

Expect to do 360-degree spins, water drifts and other crazy stunts at rapid speeds while you both feel like movie stunt doubles.

11. Hire bikes and catch a movie at Centennial Park

Put your teamwork to the test when you hire a tandem bike and explore almost 4km of cycle paths through Centennial Park. 

Bring a picnic lunch to celebrate your trials and triumphs, or book a movie screening at the open-air Moonlight Cinemas. This outdoor cinema pops up in the beautiful park each summer and autumn.

It's another romantic thing to do in Sydney you should consider bringing your date to! 

There’s so much more to see for couples to see and do in Sydney. With plenty of romantic ideas for longtime lovers, first dates, and creating lasting memories with your significant other. Book your Sydney accommodation with Oaks for a romantic getaway. Choose from our four hotels in the Emerald City and select the one closest to your planned romantic date spots in Sydney. 

Sydney Couple's FAQs

What is the best time of the year for a romantic getaway in Sydney?

The best time of the year for your romantic getaway in Sydney is probably spring. You’ll experience blooming gardens, vibrant festivals, and the perfect weather for outdoor dates like coastal walks, picnics, and more.

Autumn is also a great option, with cooler evenings ideal for a romantic date night in Sydney at a cosy restaurant or waterfront drinks. However, if your dream couple’s getaway includes warm, sunny days by the beach, then summer is your season.

What are some budget friendly romantic activities to enjoy in Sydney?

Not all the dates have to involve spending money, there are countless romantic things to do in Sydney that are completely free. Watching the sunset in Bondi Beach is just one idea for a memorable date with your partner. Strolling through the Royal Botanic Gardens, getting lost in The Rocks while exploring the city, or doing the Bondi to Coogee Walk are other fantastic date ideas. These experiences will help you create wonderful memories as you enjoy the stunning views of the city, all without spending a penny.

What's the best way to get around Sydney for a romantic weekend?

The best way to get around the city is by using Sydney’s excellent public transport system, which includes buses, trains, ferries, and light rail that connect the most iconic landmarks and neighbourhoods. Walking is also a great option for exploring the city centre, getting lost, and discovering the secrets of Sydney that only the locals know about.  

Can I book a cruise with dining included in Sydney?

Yes, booking a cruise with dining is one of the most romantic date night ideas in Sydney. You can book one of the Sydney Harbour cruise that includes a private dinner to surprise your partner, not only with a delicious meal but also with stunning views of the city skyline, the majestic Opera House, and more. There are several options available to suit different budgets.

What is a great romantic date idea for a rainy day in Sydney?

A rainy day in Sydney won’t stop you from having a lovely time with your significant other. There are plenty of romantic things to do in Sydney that include an indoor activity. Museum dates, where you can see art pieces while you walk hand in hand and discussing historical works, are the perfect excuse for spending quality time as a couple in Sydney. 

Visit the National Museum, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, or the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, and turn a rainy day into the perfect date.

Are there any romantic date ideas for nature lovers in Sydney?

Yes, there are plenty of activities for couples who love nature. You can wander through the gorgeous Royal Botanic Gardens or enjoy a picnic at some of the most beautiful beaches of Sydney, such as Milk Beach or Parsley Bay. If you want to fully immerse yourself in nature, a trip to the Blue Mountains offers breathtaking views, waterfalls, and perfect hiking trails. Don’t forget to take a photo near the iconic Three Sisters and capture the memory forever. 

Where to stay during your romantic getaway in Sydney?

Oaks Hotels offers four great options for your romantic getaway. If you want to be within walking distance of famous attractions, consider staying at either Oaks Sydney Goldsbrough Suites or Oaks Sydney Castlereagh Suites. For a more tranquil retreat near Sydney’s beautiful Hyde Park, Oaks Sydney Hyde Park is the perfect choice. Besides, Oaks Sydney North Ryde Suites is ideal if you’re looking to stay near Lane Cove National Park.

Enjoy all our top-notch facilities and amenities during your stay and plan the perfect couple’s getaway with our Sydney Couple’s Guide.