Plan the Most Romantic Weekend in Sydney

Kayaking on iconic Sydney Harbour

Sydney, with its stunning harbour, chic hotels, world-class dining, and beautiful beaches, is a dream destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to reconnect, Sydney offers endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories. Here's how to plan the perfect romantic weekend for two in this vibrant, sophisticated city.

DAY ONE: CHECK IN TO ROMANCE

Afternoon: The Eve Hotel – A Boutique Luxury Escape

Start your romantic escape by checking into The Eve Hotel, the city's newest boutique luxury hotel, which opens in February. Located on the border of Surry Hills and Redfern, The Eve is part of the $500 million Wunderlich Lane dining precinct. This architectural gem combines lush climbing gardens, rich textures, and an impressive art collection with a selection of cool new restaurants and bars.

Make sure to arrive early enough to take a swim in the rooftop pool, surrounded by retro cabanas and palm trees. Sip on a cocktail from the poolside bar while you toast the beginning of your romantic weekend in Sydney.

Evening: Dining in Style at The White Horse

For dinner, take a short 10-minute stroll to The White Horse in Surry Hills, a local institution that has recently undergone a $6 million renovation. The newly transformed space is now a fine-dining restaurant that earned a coveted chef’s hat in the 2025 Good Food Guide. With a focus on ethically sourced produce and local flavors, it offers a more affordable dining experience compared to typical hatted venues.

If you’re up for continuing the evening, wander a bit further to The Art Syndicate, an intimate wine bar and gallery in Taylor Square. With only 25 seats, this innovative spot serves a range of wines, beers, and spirits exclusively from New South Wales, creating a laid-back yet lively atmosphere where you can engage in interesting conversations with other patrons.

DAY TWO: FALL IN LOVE WITH SYDNEY

Morning: Sunrise Kayak Tour on Sydney Harbour

For an early start, embark on a sunrise kayak tour with Sydney by Kayak. Departing from Lavender Bay boat ramp at 5 a.m., this tour allows you to paddle beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge as the sun rises, casting a golden glow over one of the world’s most iconic harbours.

Afterward, head to AP Bakery on the rooftop of the Paramount House Hotel to enjoy some of the fluffiest focaccias and pastries, with the macadamia, honey, and thyme twice-baked croissant a standout.

Mid-Morning: Relaxation at Capybara Bathing

Treat yourselves to ultimate relaxation at Capybara Bathing, a wellness center in Surry Hills, just a 20-minute walk from The Eve. Sweat it out in the steam room or hot stone sauna, soak in the magnesium pool, and finish with a cold plunge for an invigorating experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Afternoon: Explore Sydney’s Art and Culture

Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney 

Spend your afternoon exploring Sydney’s rich cultural scene. Visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales, a 150-year-old institution with an incredible collection of Australian and international art. Marvel at the contrast between the old gallery and the new Sydney Modern building, an architectural masterpiece in itself.

For contemporary art lovers, head to the Museum of Contemporary Art at Circular Quay, which features Australia’s largest public collection of living artists.

Evening: Dining and Drinks with a View

As evening falls, head to The Library Bar, a hidden rooftop bar at the State Library of New South Wales. The gorgeous views over the harbour and Domain make it the perfect spot to sip cocktails as the sun sets.

For dinner, you have two exceptional choices:

• Allta: A luxe 15-course degustation menu that takes Korean cuisine to new heights, served in an intimate setting for just 12 guests.
• King Clarence: If you’re in the mood for something more laid-back, King Clarence offers a playful menu with dishes like fish finger bao buns and Vegemite toast with chicken liver skewers, all set to a lively atmosphere with DJs.

DAY THREE: CRUISING & CUISINE

Morning: Private Cruise on Sydney Harbour

Start your day with a well-deserved sleep-in before heading to the rooftop for a swim. After breakfast at Bar Julius in The Eve, set sail on a private cruise around Sydney Harbour. Choose a chic Venetian-style boat like the MV Bel or La Dolce Vita, and sip on bubbly as you glide past the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and other iconic landmarks.

Afternoon: Lunch at Balmoral Beach

Ask your captain to drop you off at Balmoral Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim followed by a long, leisurely lunch at the Bathers’ Pavilion. This heritage-listed building offers stunning views of the beach, and the menu features fresh seafood like oysters, grilled octopus, and pan-roasted barramundi fillet. After lunch, grab an artisan ice block from the kiosk and take a romantic stroll along the beach.

Evening: A Showstopping Dinner at Midden

Finish your romantic weekend with a showstopping dinner at Midden, a restaurant by Indigenous chef Mark Olive (known as The Black Olive). Located on the western boardwalk of the Sydney Opera House, Midden offers breathtaking views and a menu highlighting native ingredients such as lemon myrtle, saltbush, wallaby, and crocodile. Don’t miss the signature bush pavlova, a perfect sweet ending to your evening.

With its mix of fine dining, cultural experiences, and breathtaking views, Sydney is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Whether you’re kayaking on the harbour, enjoying a private cruise, or dining at world-class restaurants, Sydney will sweep you off your feet—leaving you with memories to cherish forever.