Sydney - A guide for Romantics

Finding something romantic to do in Sydney on Valentine's Day, or any other day, is really not that hard.

For visitors, just being in Sydney and walking by the Harbour is pretty special; however there are lots of great ways to enjoy a romantic date in Sydney.

Check out the list below for some ideas to inspire you.

This fantastic image of the Sydney Opera House was taken during the Vivid Sydney Festival.

This one will take a little planning but it really is special. You will need to make a booking with National Parks and Wildlife, hire a water taxi and prepare your picnic hamper but believe me, it is worth it.

There are 3 Sydney Harbour Islands that are suited to a romantic picnic, Shark Island, Clark Island or Rodd Island.

Clark Island has the nicest views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Shark Island has a Ferry service rather than water taxi and they take care of the island booking too. Rodd Island is up the Harbour near Iron Cove and has some pretty picnic shelters (summer houses). All are part of Sydney Harbour National Park. There is a $7 landing fee per person on top of your transport fees.

Orbit Bar - At the top of Australia Square Orbit bar is Sydney's only revolving bar. It has amazing city and harbour views and is the perfect place for a romantic pre or post dinner drink. Beers start at $9, wine $12 a glass and cocktails are almost $20 so this really is a special occasion place but if there is something to celebrate it could be just the spot.

Bar Blu on 36 - With its 360 degree view of Sydney Harbour Blu Bar (previously Horizons) never fails to take my breath away. Open daily from 5pm-1am most nights (11pm Sundays) the drinks here are pricey too but you only need one to sip while you enjoy the free view.

If a nice cold beer is more your style or your budget doesn't stretch to the places above you don't have to skip the view. Try the Glenmore Rooftop Hotel in the Rocks - great Harbour view and who knows if it's early in the week you might even get a seat too.

Cafe Sydney I have been here for a lunch and a dinner and I prefer the night view but both are spectacular. A great place to propose!

Opera Bar is the perfect way to end an afternoon in the city. Order a bottle of wine and mezze plate while you watch the sun set behind the bridge. Most weekends there is live entertainment too.

First things first - make sure your partner likes massage, I can not imagine how anyone would not like it but plenty don't.

If money is no object The Observatory Hotel Day Spa is pure heaven. I really like the sound of their "Couples Champagne Escape" and the starlight roof above the indoor swimming pool is pretty special.

If you are working with a budget Ayurve Wellness Day Spa Sydney have a couples 1 hour massage for $110 each.

Or if you prefer, grab some nice oils from Perfect Potion, my favourite aromatherapy shop in Sydney, and do it yourself.

Classes can be fun

Learning about something you both enjoy can be a great way to spend time together.

Learn to take better photos - a while ago I was invited along to a course by Sydney Photography Tours to see the quality of their offerings. I thought it was brilliant and I learned quite a few tips for taking better images. The class I attended had 5 people and the teacher was approachable and patient. We explored Sydney's Rocks area which is a great place for taking magical shots of Sydney. During the lesson the main elements of photography were explained and after each one we went off and shot images to highlighted that aspect. The teacher took time with each of us critiquing our shots and offering suggestions. I think this would be a fun thing to do with your partner.

Learn to cook Seafood - The classes offered at the Sydney Seafood School range from barbecuing seafood to making seafood Tapas. Best of all you get to enjoy your efforts at the end of the class.

Learn to Salsa - Put some passion back in your life with free Salsa classes on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights at La Cita on King Street Wharf. The music is infectious and there are always lots of beginners so you don't need to worry if you have 2 left feet.

Is there anything more romantic than walking hand in hand with your partner in a picturesque location? It's both a thoughtful and inexpensive way to spend the day together.

How about a sunrise walk from Bondi to Bronte

A lunchtime walk at Mosman - with lunch at the Mosman Rowers club or Ripples Chowder Bay if the budget stretches.

A sunset walk at Lavender Bay to watch the Harbour light up - you could even go on a ferry ride to end the evening.

If you can manage the whole day I think a Blue Mountains bush walk is a great choice.

Find more ideas on my Top 10 Walks in Sydney or Blue Mountains pages.