Melbourne is a city made for couples who love art, culture, and a good cup of coffee. Whether you’re visiting for a short romantic getaway, planning a staycation or just going on a casual date, the city offers endless opportunities to explore, create, and connect. From hidden laneways to glamorous rooftop bars with skyline views, here’s Oaks' guide to some of the most romantic things to do in Melbourne.
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Wander hand-in-hand through Hosier Lane and Melbourne’s other iconic laneways, snapping photos of street art. Stop at cafés to enjoy a coffee and pastries while taking in the creative energy of the city, then visit the Flinders Street photobooth for a selfie souvenir of your time together.
At night, you can try Lexy Restaurant and Bar, where you can find bold interiors, tasty cocktails, and a menu meant to keep you chatting, laughing, and stealing bites well into the night.
Stay nearby with Oaks Melbourne on Market Hotel, perfectly located in the heart of the CBD, just a short stroll from Degraves Street, Hardware Lane, and the vibrant Hosier Lane.
Get hands-on with a mosaic, pottery, candle-making, or life drawing class. Sharing a creative process makes for a memorable and intimate experience. There are plenty of classes and events to take part in across Melbourne, so check online to see what’s happening during your stay.
Discover stunning art collections and attend NGV Friday Nights for a romantic evening rich in culture, music, and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for couples looking to combine romance with inspiration. Stay at the nearby Oaks Melbourne Southbank Suites in the heart of the city’s arts, dining, and entertainment district.
There is always something exciting to experience at Melbourne’s art galleries and creative spaces. Base yourself in the CBD to explore Brunswick, Gertrude and Smith Street’s boutiques, galleries, and cafés. Then visit the Abbotsford Convent to stroll around the gardens and soak up some nature alongside artistic charm. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Melbourne, offering a peaceful setting with a creative twist.
Melbourne is famous for its specialty coffee, so while you are in the city, we recommend exploring laneways like Degraves Street and soaking in the city’s café culture. The city’s cafés always make for the best date spots in Melbourne.
Discover your favourite new places together, exploring our list of favourite coffee shops in Melbourne can be a great way to start.
Wondering what to do in the evening? The night markets, like the one at Queen Victoria Market, offer you diverse food options, perfect for tasting with your date. Take a foodie tour or browse the vibrant stalls of this iconic market.
Stay nearby at Oaks Melbourne on William Suites, ideally located near the market, with spacious apartments offering onsite amenities like a pool and restaurant.
Improve your coffee-making with a barista class at Market Lane or ST. ALi, where you’ll learn the art of espresso and milk texturing together. If you prefer something sweet, join a chocolate tour in the CBD to sample artisan treats at Haigh’s and Koko Black.
For a truly fun adventure, float over the city at sunrise with a hot air balloon ride. The amazing views and quiet, shared moments make it one of the most romantic things to do in Melbourne.
Sip cocktails while enjoying panoramic city views at one of Melbourne’s rooftop bars, like Naked for Satan in Fitzroy or Rooftop Bar in the heart of the CBD. Both are ideal for having a date with the sunset as a background.
Escape the city buzz and hire a rowboat, canoe, or kayak at the historic Studley Park Boathouse, known for being one of the favourite date spots in Melbourne. Nestled along a tranquil stretch of the Yarra River, it’s the perfect place for couples to paddle at their own pace, soak up the lush bushland scenery, and enjoy an intimate moment on the water.
If you want a different experience, go on a Moonlight Kayak Tour as the city lights dance on the water.
Intimate live music events held in beautiful and atmospheric settings, creating a unique and memorable date night plan. For something equally romantic, catch an outdoor cinema screening under the stars at venues like the Moonlight Cinema in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Snuggle up with a picnic rug, share snacks, and enjoy the magic of film in a one-of-a-kind setting.
To make the evening even more special, before seeing the film, stop by The Observatory, which is the kind of spot where you can have a conversation and get to know each other more.
Take a stroll or rent bikes along the Yarra River, starting or ending at Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens. With unique views of the city and the option to book a private dinner cruise, it’s the perfect blend of nature, romance, and urban charm. If you want a more playful alternative to the normal bike, rent a waterbike and swap traffic noises for water ripples.
Afterwards, retreat to WRAP on Southbank or have dinner at Yarra Botanica for a relaxing evening.
No matter what interests you, you’ll find plenty of romantic things to do in Melbourne CBD, from unique date experiences to romantic places to stay, ideal for couples' getaways.
Book with Oaks Hotels and look forward to making unforgettable memories with your loved one in Melbourne.
