Romantic Things To Do in Sydney

Looking for somewhere romantic to take that special someone? Offering fantastic waterfront dining, picturesque picnic spots, outdoor cinemas and a diverse calendar of events, Sydney is home to many places that can set the mood for a romantic day or night out.

Get planning your next date night, or celebrate a milestone with a loved one with one of these romantic things to do in Sydney.

Outdoor cinemas

For a fancier affair than a visit to the local cinema, catch a flick in the evening air at one of Sydney’s outdoor cinemas this summer. Enjoy one of the many new releases or cult classics scheduled, or watch a special preview screening. Choose from a stunning Sydney Harbour backdrop at the St George Open Air Cinema, or relax on Bondi Beach at Ben and Jerry’s Openair Cinemas Bondi.

Ben and Jerry’s Openair Cinemas Bondi

Picnic at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

With stunning views of Sydney Harbour and many shady trees to spread a picnic blanket under, the Royal Botanic Garden is an idyllic and central spot for a romantic breakfast, lunch or early dinner. Once you’ve finished picnicking, take a stroll around the extensive grounds and explore its many themed and manicured gardens.

Picnic at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Blacktown Skyline Drive In

For a cinematic experience with a hint of nostalgia, spend the evening at the Blacktown Skyline Drive In and enjoy a movie from the comfort of your car. Stock the car with your own food or dine on American-style food and refreshing beverages at the cinema’s 1950s-themed diner.

Image credit: Peter Dobson and Blacktown Skyline Drive In Cinema

Dinner by the harbour

Set the scene for a romantic night out with dinner at one of Sydney’s many harbourside restaurants and cafés. Time your date to see the sun set over Sydney Harbour. Popular dining locations with spectacular waterfront views include Darling Harbour and Circular Quay, with plenty of acclaimed restaurants, bars and cafes perfect for dinner and a nightcap.

Dining beside Sydney Harbour at Opera Kitchen

Night visit to the Sydney Observatory

Gaze up at the stars and explore the night sky alongside your partner during an evening visit to the Sydney Observatory. A tour after dark gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about the universe, discover ancient Indigenous astronomy, and trace planets and galaxies through the observatory’s telescopes.

Stargazing at the Sydney Observatory

‘Roar and Snore’ at Taronga Zoo

Experience a date with a difference with Taronga Zoo’s Roar and Snore program. Come face-to-face with some of Taronga’s furry, feathered and scaly creatures during behind the scenes tours in one of Sydney’s most enchanting date itineraries. Spend the night within the zoo grounds in a safari tent and wake up to the sounds of the zoo’s resident birds and animals as you watch the sun rise over Sydney Harbour.

‘Roar and Snore’ at Taronga Zoo

See a theatre production or musical

Experience world-class theatre and musicals in Sydney. With local and international acts performing as part of a varied year-round program, there are plenty of shows to choose from for a romantic night out. Stellar performances to look forward to this season include Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on Stage, on now at the Sydney Lyric Theatre until February, and Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour from 27 March – 26 April 2015. This year’s Hand Opera on Sydney Harbour program features Verdi’s dramatic Aida, an epic story of a royal love triangle set in Egypt at the time of the pharaohs.