Free things to do in Sydney : A destination guide for couples

Break up your day with a glimpse into the magical world of Sydney’s most creative minds by visiting one of the many free exhibitions at galleries and museums within the city. The Art Gallery of NSW has a weekly Art After Hours event every Wednesday. The gallery presents a range of free and fun activities. There is live music, guided tours, celebrity talks and more! Displays are open until 10:00 pm and the café is open until 9:30 pm so you can treat you date to a hot drink or a bite to eat. A courtesy bus runs every 15 minutes from 7:00 pm until close from the gallery to surrounding car parks and Martin Place, so there’s no stress about getting home.

Who doesn’t love being treated to a special outdoor feast in a romantic setting? The Royal Botanical Gardens just around the corner from the Sydney Opera House is a godsend for couples who want to relax in a beautiful natural spot close by to the water’s edge and be away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Many refer to it as a hidden treasure. Walk through the manicured gardens and take up residence under a shady tree. Lay down the blanket, take out your wine and cheese and breathe in the view. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic date! Don’t forget the insect repellent and to take note of what time the gardens close and you will be set for a great date.

Nothing screams romance like the looking out at Sydney’s stunning, sparkling skyline in the evening while you are cuddled close to your partner. The Sydney Harbour bridge has a pedestrian lane and walking along it at any time of the day to take in the city skyline line is recommended. As you walk in the evening, you’ll see the Opera House, Luna Park and the rest of the city illuminated. Admire the lights from the boats in the harbor below. Immortalize your memory by taking your camera with you, there are many spots along the way for a spectacular photo opportunity.

Be a part of one of Australia’s fastest growing trends and perfect your Latin dancing skills when you next visit the city. Free classes with experienced teachers can be booked up most evenings. One to look out for is Latin Fusion Dance Academy who provide free salsa lessons in a fun and casual atmosphere. Classes are offered in Liverpool, Parramatta, Castle Hill and Penrith and start at 8pm. Beginner classes are also available. After the lessons, you have the option to practice what you’ve learned at the dance academy’s social nights!

There is an abundance of quiet and romantic spots close by to the Sydney Harbour where couples can go to enjoy the view and not be caught up in the rush. McMahon’s Point is a typical location where you can enjoy a full waterfront view any time of the day. Plenty more walking routes around the shoreline are easy to come by but aren’t necessarily plotted on the average tourist map, so keep your eyes open and embrace the unexpected adventures that wait your next visit.

Cap the day off with a cosy moment listening to live music with your loved one when you’re next in the heart of the city. The Sydney Opera Bar, which is located under the Opera House, is a great place to enjoy a nice evening out and hear local talent perform impromptu shows for passing audiences. The opera bar always has entertainment on so check out the listings for when you plan to stop by. This is also a convenient spot for grabbing a drink, taking in the view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and letting the music of the talented artists sweep you away.

The Bondi to Coogee walk is notably one of the best things to do in Sydney. It’s full of sweeping, romantic views. The walk is spectacular any time of the day but why not try it around sunset as the golden colours will add even more charm to the walk. From the rushing of the ocean around the Bondi icebergs to the sea cliff view of Clovelly, this coastal walk makes for a beautiful evening. The full walk is around 2 hours. You can take it as a leisurely stroll or even as a high paced exercising walk.

Another ferry ride away from Circular Quay, Watson’s Bay is a nice destination to spend the day. It has a large lush green park with great views of the harbour and skyline. It is the perfect place to pull out the blanket and relax. You can visit one of its beaches and have a swim. The Watsons Bay walk will take you past a nudist beach (if you dare), the Hornby lighthouse and gorgeous views of the North Head. You can also choose to walk the Federation Cliff walk where you will find more incredible views and the Macquarie Lighthouse.

Your visit to Sydney would not be complete without a dip in the ocean at the city’s most celebrated beach, Bondi. This golden stretch of sand is a hive of activity for water babies, fitness enthusiasts, café culture loves and tourists with a penchant for getting a tan. Swimming is a popular pastime for Aussies so join in the fun and cool off from the heat in amongst the rapturous waves. Lifeguards are always on watch so your safety is guaranteed. As the sun comes down, stick around for a romantic beach walk or venture further afield to the nearby walking routes and take in the blissful scenery.

Enjoy a day full of adventure and the wonders of marine life together as you enjoy one of Sydney’s best snorkelling spots. In between Manly and Shelly Beach, you’ll find one of the most impressive ranges of marine life. From stingrays to wobbegong sharks to the much less frightening flathead and cuttlefish, this spot be the highlight of your afternoon! Afterwards, relax on the beach with some nibbles and take in the gorgeous views.