Home to wonderful wine bars, cosy cafes, unique spas and perfect picnic spots in picturesque parks, a romantic weekend in Melbourne is always guaranteed.
Linger over long lunches, steal a kiss in a famous cinema or see the city from Melbourne’s highest rooftop bar. From some quintessentially Melbourne experiences to more exhilarating date night options, we’ve wrapped up 10 ideas to inspire a weekend of romance.
While away the afternoon in the park
Picnicking is a quintessential Melbourne activity, and is there anything more romantic than a picnic basket carefully packed with artisanal small goods (and perhaps a cheeky bottle of bubbles) and some downtime in a 170-year-old park?
Carlton’s Lygon Street is famous for Italian food, and King and Godfree is the perfect place to pick up picnic supplies. A stylish Italian cafe, wine shop and deli, it is well-stocked with top-shelf European cheeses, sliced-to-order meats (including mouth-watering Italian prosciutto) and a delicious range of antipasti. Head off to nearby Carlton Gardens in the heart of the city for your feast for two.
Originally occupied by the Aboriginal people of the Kulin nation, Carlton Gardens was set aside for public use in 1852, and in 2004 it became the first place in Victoria to be added to the World Heritage List.
Unwind together at a day spa
For some well-deserved pampering, head to the Sense Of Self spa in Collingwood. Housed in a beautifully converted warehouse, the light-filled space is soothing, uplifting and sure to rejuvenate you both while stoking the romance.
Spend a few hours in the bathhouse together enjoying the Finnish sauna, hot mineral bath and cool plunge pool, or book yourselves in for a relaxation or remedial massage – a truly romantic way to unwind and reset together.
Experience old Hollywood glamour
Nothing says romance like old-style cinema. The grand Astor Theatre in St Kilda, with its glimmering chandeliers and stunning gold curtains, will make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time to rub shoulders with Hollywood royalty. It is the last single screen cinema of its kind operating in Melbourne, offering both new and classic movies. What a perfect place for holding hands and sneaking a smooch in the back row.
Cruise for two on the Yarra
Take a cruise down Melbourne’s famous river and enjoy the city sights. Yarra River Cruises offers private trips for just the two of you, with a personal skipper. Choose a daytime cruise to see the beautiful scenery and skyline, or sail under the stars and watch the city light up at night. The company offers food and wine packages so you can sip some bubbly and nibble a selection of cheeses, or share a fine three-course meal out on the water, all while listening to your favourite playlist.
Wine and dine in trendy Fitzroy
There are plenty of wonderful wine bars to choose from in Melbourne, but a perennial favourite is Marion in Fitzroy. Owned by superstar chef Andrew McConnell, it has one of the most extensive wine lists in the city and will be sure to get wine lovers’ hearts racing. If you feel like a snack there are plenty of cheeses to choose from, and a range of small bites such as oysters, scallops or a charcuterie board.
Learn an axe-citing new skill
Break the ice on a first date or spice things up with your long-term partner with an axe throwing date at Maniax Axe Throwing. Learn an exhilarating new skill together and have loads of fun doing it! Could there be any better way to spend a date night than hurling hatchets with the one you love?
Stay in a luxury boutique hotel
Do your romantic weekend in Melbourne right and treat yourself to a night (or two!) in a gorgeous, boutique hotel. The Adelphi Hotel is our top pick, boasting fresh, funky décor and a rooftop pool, and an easy stroll to some of the city’s best restaurants in Flinders Lane. And there’s also the Om Nom dessert bar for you to share a little something sweet at the end of the evening.
Bare it all at a burlesque show
Bar Pigalle is the only dedicated burlesque club in Melbourne – its name an homage to the Parisian district of debauchery – featuring world-class burlesque acts, premium cocktails and lush décor that draws inspiration from olde worlde Paris and New Orleans. You’ll definitely be in for a racy night out!
Day trip to the Dandenongs
For nature-lovers wanting to escape the hustle and bustle, just one hour east of the city is the lush bushland of the Dandenong Ranges. For a challenge, try the 1000 Steps Walk or stroll by a waterfall at Sherbrooke Falls. You could very well be serenaded by lyrebirds and might even have some echidnas or swamp wallabies for company.
Top off your romantic weekend in Melbourne with sky high views
The perfect way to take in all the sights of the city is from Melbourne’s highest rooftop bar, Fable. On the 13th level of the Greek Community building in the CBD, Fable has views of the Eureka Skydeck, the Arts Centre and even the Bolte Bridge. It serves up exquisite cocktails, a Mediterranean menu and spectacular views – although you might only have eyes for each other.
Not ready to end your Melbourne experience? Take a look at even more fantastic recommendations for hotels, restaurants and activities.
For more romantic date ideas in Hobart, click here.
Or, if you’re thinking of flying to this romantic city, click here to book flights with Rex Airlines.
