Melbourne cements itself as one of the live music capitals of the world with the Now or Never festival. This exhilarating event brings together the best of Melbourne Music Week (MMW) and Knowledge Week, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of sound, culture, and creativity. Couples can dive into a shared adventure with electrifying performances and thought-provoking experiences that make perfect date moments.

By day, ignite your curiosity with a stimulating mix of educational workshops, thought-provoking talks, and interactive experiences. As the sun sets, Melbourne's after-dark scene explodes with cutting-edge digital art installations. You can also catch electrifying performances by local and international musicians in iconic spaces, late-night clubs, and stately historic buildings.

One of the biggest annual music festivals in the country, Ultra Australia, is an outdoor electronic music festival and part of the global Ultra Music Festival family. It usually takes place in April and features renowned DJs and producers delivering unforgettable sets. Mark your calendars early to be part of this vibrant celebration of rave music. 

If jazz is your preference, plan ahead to attend the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, usually at the end of the year. This 10-day celebration attracts renowned jazz musicians worldwide, infusing the city with soulful rhythms and transforming Melbourne into a groovy jazz lover's paradise. 

There is nothing like nature to engage you and your beloved’s senses of wonder and awe. Such a timeless experience can be experienced at the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. Walking around this 38-hectare expanse of beautifully sculptured greens, undulating hills, and tranquil lakes, you’ll momentarily forget that you’re within Melbourne’s city limits.

The Gardens offers various workshops and tours throughout the year. Visit the website to check out the available activities and events during your visit. From a guided tour at the Observatory to an Aboriginal Heritage Walk, there is plenty to do with your significant other. 

For more nature sights, visit the Great Otway National Park. Stretching along Victoria's dramatic coastline, it’s a mix of rugged cliffs, misty rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and towering eucalyptus trees. Whether you're hiking through lush trails, spotting native wildlife, or marvelling at ancient trees, the park feels like a world away. Don’t miss the sweeping coastal views or the historic Cape Otway Lightstation—a beacon that’s guided sailors for over a century.

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Get directions to the Great Otway National Park

You may think that cricket and romance don’t make sweet bedfellows, but there are lessons on love to be drawn from the sport. This quote by renowned former Aussie cricketer Steve Waugh is but one such gem: “The minute you hesitate you are in trouble.”

The Ashes is a biennial cricket series played between England and Australia. It is named after the trophy—a small terracotta urn said to contain the burnt balls from a game played in 1882 at The Oval. Imagine how much heat that game must’ve generated as you stroll around the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)'s luscious grounds. Be sure to check out the available Melbourne cricket matches while you’re in Melbourne.

Another major sports highlight is the Australian Open, one of the country’s most cherished events, which usually occurs in January. If you are both into tennis, then this two-week tennis extravaganza is a treat. The Australian Open is known to draw top tennis superstars, thousands of fans, world-class musicians, and an electrifying atmosphere, which you and your significant other can be a part of. 

If you’re both into racing, then the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix is a must. Every March, the city fires up with high-speed racing and sleek supercars. As the Grand Prix season opener, it sets the stage for the entire F1 calendar, bringing together top drivers, cutting-edge technology, and fervent fans. The event also features off-track entertainment, including concerts, celebrity appearances, and exclusive hospitality experiences, making it a thrilling and glamorous start to the racing year.  

Get directions to Melbourne Cricket Ground

Get directions to Melbourne Park (Australian Open)

Get directions to Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit

Fancy a surprise arranged by a group of food connoisseurs who will text you the secret location only two hours prior to the event? Say “hello” (and possibly “thank you”) to Secret Foodies. 

You could end up dining on a rooftop somewhere in the city, or a dark graffiti-adorned laneway, or a heritage-listed barn–wherever it is, you’ll have loads of fun meeting fellow foodies. What’s more, you and your date would be surrounded by pleasing food, a free flow of wine, and uninterrupted conversation. Find out about upcoming Secret Foodies events here.

If you are looking for a more private experience for the two of you, head to Chez Bagou, an intimate dining experience inspired by the charm of French cuisine. The cosy ambience, accentuated by soft lighting and elegant decor, creates the perfect setting for a romantic evening. The menu features exquisite dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, paired with an impressive selection of wines. 

Another great dining venue is the Freyja Restaurant, which offers a sophisticated and intimate dining experience. The restaurant's elegant Scandinavian-inspired design, featuring minimalist decor and warm lighting, creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Couples can enjoy a meticulously crafted menu that showcases contemporary Nordic cuisine made with the finest local ingredients. The attentive service and curated wine selection further enhance your dining experience.

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Get directions to Freya Restaurant

A good cafe is not just a place to grab a bite, but also to hang out, especially with your loved one. And in Melbourne, cafes come in spades. This list of the best cafes in Melbourne will give you some ideas. 

The list includes Auctions Rooms, a beloved cafe of locals. Be sure to order the tiramisu toast to share with your loved one—you won’t be disappointed. 

If both of you are serious about your coffee, then Niccolo is your choice. It’s all about coffee here, serving up house blends and single origins straight from their warehouse. 

Prefer a good ambience? Head to Higher Ground housed in a stunning heritage-listed building in the city centre. Hot cakes are a must here, and if you are feeling adventurous, try one or two of the breakfast cocktails. Don’t forget to pair them with mouth-watering peanut butter waffles, topped with chocolate and orange yoghurt mousse. 

Another great option is Café Airo at PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport, where you can unwind in comfort with panoramic views of airport activity while enjoying barista-made coffee or delicious meals from our refreshed menu. Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi and keep track of your travel with convenient arrival and departure screens, all in a relaxing atmosphere designed for your convenience.

Get directions to Auction Rooms

Get directions to Niccolo

Get directions to Higher Ground

Looking for more romantic spots to spend with your significant other? Check out our Destination Insights for inspiration. For a convenient and comfortable stay in Melbourne, consider PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport, which is directly connected to the terminal. It's ideal for couples looking to relax before or after a flight, offering modern rooms and easy access to airport amenities.