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.

Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on Stage

Limbo | Dirty and Dangerous Circus Cabaret - Sydney Festival 2015

Limbo | Dirty and Dangerous Circus Cabaret - Sydney Festival 2015

After a sellout season at Sydney Festival 2014, the ultimate other-worldly party, staged somewhere between heaven and hell, returns to the Festival Village once more with circus that’s wild, wicked and out of this world.

“An irresistible cocktail of circus skills, live music and sexy humour”

Time Out (UK)

LIMBO is dirty and dangerous circus cabaret, whisking audiences into a sinister netherworld of jaw-dropping contortion, gut-churning aerial acrobatics, nail-biting stunts and staggering illusions.

Set to Sxip Shirey's thrilling live score of brass, electronics, hip-hop and club beats, LIMBO is poised to set Sydney on fire again.

Event Duration: 70 mins, no interval

Event Preview: 7 January at 7.30pm 

Event Dates: 8–25 January 

8 January at 5.15pm & 9.45pm 
Tues–Sun at 9.45pm 
Sat at 5.15pm & 9.45pm 

No performance on Mondays

View the official Sydney Festival Site

#sydneyfestival #sydfest #sydfest2015

Sydney’s New Year's Eve 2014 Fireworks Display

The annual Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks are about as good an advert for the city as it is possible to have.

Paid for by the local Sydney government, the spectacular display is one of the first New Year’s celebrations to be beamed around the globe every year.

The municipal authorities, not generally known for their modesty when it comes to Sydney’s charms, describe their city as “the New Year's Eve Capital of the World” – and they’re quite right in this instance. Each year brings a different (fairly broad) theme. Last year was “Shine”, the previous year was “Embrace”, and this year it is “Inspire”. 

It truly is one of the most memorable places you will find anywhere to welcome in the New Year, with the balmy Australian summer and the wonderful harbour setting making it ideal for spending the build-up outdoors in convivial company.

That said, its popularity does create its own problems – with some areas around the harbour throbbing with crowds. With a little bit of planning and insider knowledge, you can make sure you find the ideal spot to see in the New Year 2015.

Do I need a ticket?

The short answer is no. If you don't want to pay, you don't have to - there are plenty of vantage points that do not require payment. However, there are many ticketed events, many of which will be booked up well in advance. See here for the full rundown of what’s going on.

Many places will already have sold out – some of them with astonishing price tags.

When are the displays?

It’s not such a stupid question. There are, in fact, two firework displays in the Sydney. The first is at 9pm, a “family fireworks” event before the main event at midnight. If for some reason you’d rather watch the main event from your hotel television with children tucked up in bed (good luck with that), the early showing will allow you to get back.

Where should I watch it?

The "front row seats" – the area around Circular Quay and the Botanical Gardens – inevitably are the most popular. Many old Sydney-siders think you get a better perspective from the North Shore, as well as marginally less competition for a patch of grass to watch the show.

Those who like to toast the coming year should note that many vantage points do not allow any fizz (including the Central Business District). Some include alcohol in their ticket price. Others do not allow Bring Your Own (BYO) alcohol. If this is a New Year prerequisite for you, be sure to check.

On the water

Alternatively you could take a Harbour Cruise(newyearsevecruise.com.au). Note that you’ll be on the boat for a long evening – typically, setting off at 6pm and you usually have to bring your own food but you’ll have a great, uncrowded, view of the fireworks.

When should I arrive?

Get there early, or miss out (picture: Getty Images)

The broad advice is simply to get there early or you will miss out. Competition for spaces can be fierce. People even start camping out the day before the event in some places. Even in areas where pressure to bag a spot is less intense, plan on spending most of the day there - by noon, many places will already be full. The vantage points information on the official website will have live updates on whether or not they have reached capacity.

Specific information on vantage points will be published on the main website in November: Sydney New Year vantage points

Transport

Don’t even think about driving. Sydney – never the best city for traffic – is simply nightmarish at this time of year due to road closures and crowds.

Extra public transport is in operation to get spectators home after the event. Again, it’s worth planning your journey in advance. Do so attransportnsw.info.

The official Sydney New Year's Eve website also allows you to sign up for updates about road closures and transport disruption.

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Ricky Martin - Live in Sydney

THE GRAMMY WINNING GLOBAL SUPERSTAR AND CURRENT COACH ON THE VOICE WILL MAKE HIS HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED RETURN TO ALLPHONES ARENA IN APRIL 2015.

Nine Live and Sony Music Entertainment are proud to announce that GRAMMY winning music superstar Ricky Martin will return to Allphones Arena next year for his One World Tour.

Ricky Martin delighted sold-out audiences with his first Australian tour in more than 10 years last October, and fans will sure to be delighted with the One World Tour.

“I am so excited to bring my new One World Tour back to Australia next year and see all of my loving & loyal Aussie fans once more,” says Martin. “I am looking forward to playing some new material that I have been working on this year, some of my classics and perhaps a few surprises!”

Ticket Prices:

Platinum $169.90
Gold $119.90
Silver $99.90

Event Venue:  All phones Arena

ALLPHONES ARENA is situated in Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney’s newest suburb (created within Homebush Bay). It is located in the geographic and demographic heart of Sydney, approximately 17km west of Sydney’s CBD. 

It is on Olympic Boulevard and is well sign posted when you reach Sydney Olympic Park.

Buy Tickets - http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=RICKYMAR15&v=SSD

Food and Fashion Markets in Sydney

No matter where you're staying in Sydney, take time to visit one of the city's lively markets.

Head to The Rocks to enjoy a colourful market scene in the area’s quaint cobblestone laneways. Sample a wide range of Australian-made gourmet produce at The Rocks Foodies Market held every Friday.  Numerous food stalls will delight your tastebuds with everything from Turkish gozleme to barbequed salmon, and gourmet sausages to mini cupcakes. The Rocks Markets are held every Saturday and Sunday and feature more than 200 stalls. Discover emerging designers of fashion and accessories, locally-produced homewares, and original photography, art and crafts.

The city's biggest produce market is the Sydney Markets, incorporating the Sydney Growers Market, Sydney Flower Market and Sydney Produce Market which is located at Flemington. With a history that reaches back as far as 1788, these markets have something for everyone, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Close to Sydney Olympic Park, the Sydney Markets at Flemington are easily accessed by bus, train, or car.

Paddy's Markets at Haymarket is another great option, located near Chinatown. Open from Thursday to Sunday every week, these colourful markets are only a short stroll from Darling Harbour and Pyrmont.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a funky inner-city market showcasing Sydney's artistic side, Glebe Markets, Rozelle Weekend Markets, and Paddington Markets offer handmade jewellery, vintage clothing, second hand books, records, shoes, furniture and more. Open every Saturday, these markets are perfect for anyone with a creative streak.

And if you're staying near Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach, the Bondi Markets are held every Sunday in the beachfront grounds of Bondi Beach Public School. Not only will you find arts, crafts, jewellery, homewares, furniture and clothes galore, but this is the place to discover Australia's hottest new designers. Come and enjoy the friendly seaside atmosphere all while enjoying a delicious sausage sizzle at one of Sydney's most beautiful locations.

Outside the city, there are Farmers' Markets being held regularly around country NSW. Sample the locally-grown produce and delights such as wine, cheese and honey from the areas around Mudgee, Orange, Dubbo, and Wagga Wagga, all while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. 

Find out More

Food and Fashion Markets in Sydney

No matter where you're staying in Sydney, take time to visit one of the city's lively markets.

Head to The Rocks to enjoy a colourful market scene in the area’s quaint cobblestone laneways. Sample a wide range of Australian-made gourmet produce at The Rocks Foodies Market held every Friday.  Numerous food stalls will delight your tastebuds with everything from Turkish gozleme to barbequed salmon, and gourmet sausages to mini cupcakes. The Rocks Markets are held every Saturday and Sunday and feature more than 200 stalls. Discover emerging designers of fashion and accessories, locally-produced homewares, and original photography, art and crafts.

The city's biggest produce market is the Sydney Markets, incorporating the Sydney Growers Market, Sydney Flower Market and Sydney Produce Market which is located at Flemington. With a history that reaches back as far as 1788, these markets have something for everyone, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Close to Sydney Olympic Park, the Sydney Markets at Flemington are easily accessed by bus, train, or car.

Paddy's Markets at Haymarket is another great option, located near Chinatown. Open from Thursday to Sunday every week, these colourful markets are only a short stroll from Darling Harbour and Pyrmont.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a funky inner-city market showcasing Sydney's artistic side, Glebe Markets, Rozelle Weekend Markets, and Paddington Markets offer handmade jewellery, vintage clothing, second hand books, records, shoes, furniture and more. Open every Saturday, these markets are perfect for anyone with a creative streak.

And if you're staying near Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach, the Bondi Markets are held every Sunday in the beachfront grounds of Bondi Beach Public School. Not only will you find arts, crafts, jewellery, homewares, furniture and clothes galore, but this is the place to discover Australia's hottest new designers. Come and enjoy the friendly seaside atmosphere all while enjoying a delicious sausage sizzle at one of Sydney's most beautiful locations.

Outside the city, there are Farmers' Markets being held regularly around country NSW. Sample the locally-grown produce and delights such as wine, cheese and honey from the areas around Mudgee, Orange, Dubbo, and Wagga Wagga, all while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. 

Find out More

Matilda The Musical | Lyric Theatre Sydney

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Matilda The Musical will make its Australian Premiere at Sydney Lyric Theatre in August 2015.

Matilda The Musical is based on the beloved novel by best-selling author Roald Dahl (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Fantastic Mr. Fox). It is the story of an extraordinary girl who dreams of a better life. Armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, Matilda dares to take a stand and change her destiny. 

Featuring music and lyrics by Australian comedian, musician and composer Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical has proven an enormous success in London’s West End and on Broadway, where productions continue to play to packed houses and capture the imagination of young and old alike.

Matilda The Musical is directed by Tony Award® winner Matthew Warchus (God of Carnage), who helms this production with a book by Tony Award®-winning playwright Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. The production has sets and costumes by Tony Award® winner Rob Howell, with choreography by Tony Award® winner Peter Darling, orchestrations, additional music and musical supervision by Christopher Nightingale, lighting by Tony Award® winner Hugh Vanstone, and sound by Simon Baker.

Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl. 

With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical tells the tale of an extraordinary girl who is determined to change her own story, even if it means being a little bit naughty... 

Winner of 50 major international awards, including 12 for Best Musical, Matilda continues to delight audiences of all ages both in London and on Broadway. 

American Express Pre-sale on Now

“ONCE IN A BLUE MOON, A SHOW COMES OUT BLAZING AND RESTORES YOUR FAITH IN BROADWAY. MATILDA THE MUSICAL IS THAT SHOW.”