Fun Date Ideas in Melbourne Set to Impress This Spring

From humble, albeit awkward beginnings, to going steady and beyond, there will always be one question that greets you and your partner throughout all the phases of your blossoming relationship: “So, what do you want to do for date night?”

To help you and your beau settle on a date night to remember, we’ve curated a list of romantic experiences, ranging from dinner dates dialled up a notch to hot and steamy spa days and quiet city escapes, guaranteed to satisfy all tastes.

Up the romance and impress your S.O. with these fun date ideas in Melbourne.

A Dreamy Day Out at Abbotsford Convent

Turn a casual Sunday into something quietly magical at Abbotsford Convent, where history, art, and greenery collide in the most Melbourne way. Begin with a leisurely lunch at Cam’s Kiosk, sharing antipasti or a perfectly dressed pasta while sunlight streams through the historic arches. Breakfast here is equally delightful. Wander hand-in-hand through lush gardens and hidden courtyards, pausing under the trees with a blanket, a book, or simply each other, letting the gardens’ charm settle around you.

Explore artist studios and galleries where creativity hums in every corner, and if the market is on, hunt for a quirky treasure among the craft stalls. Round off the afternoon with an early dinner at Julie.

A day here becomes a story, a stroll, a shared curiosity, and a little pinch of wonder in the heart of Melbourne.

Visit the Abbotsford Convent website for more inspiration

1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford

Mix, Mingle & Sweeten the Night at Club DVD

Looking for a unique, low-pressure date idea in Melbourne? Club DVD is the perfect blend of cosy, quirky, and effortlessly cool. One month you might find it at LongPlay, the next at Wildflower Picture House & Bar, or Milney’s — always Northside, naturally. Think moody lighting, cult classics like Mulholland Drive or The Love Witch, and laid-back post-film discussion groups. No pressure, just good conversation, a bit of film nerding, and maybe a flicker of flirtation.

It’s intimate without being intense — and way more memorable than the usual dinner and drinks. Romantic main character energy, activated.

Keep your eyes peeled for the next Club DVD sesh here

Milney’s, 451b Brunswick Street, Fitzroy 

Collage Classes at That Paper Joint

If your ideal date includes good vibes, hands-on creativity, and something a little different, head to That Paper Joint in Brunswick. Their Sketch & Screen nights mix cult films with art-making in a colourful, cosy studio — with BYO snacks and wine, ambient lighting, and your pick of sketching, collaging, or crafting while the movie plays.

But that’s just the start — TPJ also hosts zine-making nights, hands-on workshops, pub collage sessions, and more. It’s playful, relaxed, and perfect for creative couples who want something more inspired than just drinks. Book ahead, and let the parallel play magic begin.

 544 Sydney Road, Brunswick 

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Trivia Tuesday at Gracie’s Wine Room

Cutest Tuesday night plans? Locked. Gracie’s Wine Room in South Yarra is now hosting Trivia Night every second Tuesday — and yes, it’s just as sweet as it sounds. Think mood lighting, a killer natty wine list, charcuterie plates, oysters, fluffy foccacia, plus trivia hosted by the iconic Francesca Blundell in partnership with The Weekly Fifty. Bring your besties or book it in for a cosy double date — either way, it’s giving elevated midweek energy.

Starts this week, Tuesday 13th May, every second Tuesday following

Doors 4pm, trivia from 6:30pm sharp

Bookings via DM — name, group size + mobile

Date Night Goals at Bianchetto Bar

If you’re looking to spice up your midweek or weekend date night, Bianchetto is serving charm in spades. Swing by for Aperitivo Time (Thursday to Saturday, 5pm to 6:30pm) for half-price drinks and complimentary house bites, then stick around on Thursdays for Piano Nights—live vocals and piano from 7pm to 10pm. Or, cosy up on Wednesdays for Movie Night: a glass of Prosecco, creamy risotto, and a classic film for just $45.

Romantic, relaxed, and just the right amount of retro, this is one of our favourite under-the-radar date spots in Melbourne.

26-28 Cotham Road, Kew

Let Your Love Row

For a sweet and playful date, head to Fairfield Boathouse and hire a rowboat to gently glide along the Yarra River. Surrounded by lush greenery, the stunning scenery creates the perfect romantic setting for you both to unwind and enjoy each other’s company. After your row, head back to the beautifully renovated boathouse for a coffee, cocktail, or bite to eat in an idyllic spot. Picnic grounds and peaceful walking paths offer a relaxed post-row stroll. 

Fairfield Park, Fairfield Park Drive, Fairfield

Get Cute and Cuddly…at Puppy Yoga!

Yoga can be a fun and engaging date idea in Melbourne for active couples, but Soflo Studios is dialling up the adorableness with its delightful ‘Pups & Poses’ classes. This unique offering allows you and your partner to enjoy a relaxing yoga session while playful puppies roam around, bringing an extra dose of joy to the practice.

After the class, take some time to unwind with well-deserved puppy cuddles and pats. Pair this heartwarming experience with brunch at a nearby cafe for a perfect daytime date that combines wellness, cuteness, and good food in one memorable outing.

Pups and Poses subject to puppy availability

56 Garnsworthy Street, Springvale

Reach New Heights at Urban Climb

Want your romance to reach new heights…literally? For a unique date idea in Melbourne, head to Urban Climb. Show off your nimble rock climbing skills — or learn something new — as you try your hand at bouldering and scaling up the giant walls as your partner belays you. It’s the ultimate test of trust, but it’s a whole lot of fun! 

Plus, there are different walls accommodating for all skill sets and levels of experience, so you don’t need to worry about looking foolish or not being “good enough”. 

29/41 Down Street, Collingwood

Unit 5/15-33 Alfred Street, Blackburn

Unleash Your Competitive Streak at Archie Brothers Cirque Electric and Strike Bowling

Let your inner child run wild at Archie Brothers Cirque Electric and Strike Bowling. This nostalgic date idea lets you embrace your playful side, from arcade games to bowling lanes. Lace up your shoes, challenge your date to a friendly match, or team up for quirky games together.

Feeling competitive? Hop into the dodgem cars and race each other around the track for some high-octane fun. 

285 Springvale Road, Glen Waverley

Get a Taste of Everything with a Progressive Dinner Date 

Turn an ordinary dinner into a playful culinary adventure through Melbourne’s streets. Each course becomes a mini destination — start with an entrée at one spot, wander to the next for mains, and finish with a decadent dessert at a hidden gem. Walking between courses keeps the night lively, lets flavours settle, and gives you both a moment to soak in the city’s pulse.

Sitchu Tip: Carlton, Fitzroy, Armadale, the CBD, or Glen Waverley are perfect for this progressive date, where every bite and step feels like discovery.

Enjoy a Saturday Night Boogie and Vinyl Night

Whoever said Saturday night fever was dead was a liar. If you’ve got the urge to enjoy some incredible food and also have a boogie all under the one roof, Pincho x Disco is hosting a vinyl DJ night every Saturday from 7pm. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy a symphony of Latin American flavours, sip on a variety of cocktails until you feel buzzed and ready to move your feet to some funky disco tunes, dancing until the early hours of the morning.

Every Saturday from 7pm

59 Cambridge Street, Collingwood

Get Swept Away in the Romance of an Orchestra

You’re meant to treat life like you’re the main character, right? What better way to live out that romance movie moment than by watching a live orchestra? The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra offers regular performances, including MSO at the Movies sessions, where you can enjoy films like Harry Potter, Home Alone, and Star Wars — all with a live orchestra soundtrack! It’s so immersive, you’ll almost forget the music is happening in real time.

See MSO’s what’s on schedule for upcoming events

Spend the Night at VIVA

For couples seeking an unforgettable date night, Melbourne’s dazzling new cabaret venue, VIVA, promises a night of glamour, intrigue, and passion. Housed in a luxurious 1920s-style Spiegel tent, VIVA masterfully fuses vintage allure with contemporary sophistication. Begin your evening with Elegant, a breathtaking blend of comedy, dance, and drama, before being swept away by the provocative energy of Exotic, a bold and daring spectacle. With exquisite dining and spellbinding performances, VIVA transforms date night into a scintillating escape. Move over, Moulin Rouge—VIVA has arrived.

64 Sutton Street, North Melbourne

Attend a Candlelit Concert

Hold hands and get swept up in the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience, all under the glow of candlelight. For an unforgettable date idea in Melbourne, you simply can’t look past attending a candlelit concert from Fever. There are orchestral tributes to Coldplay and Taylor Swift, as well as the soaring sounds of Mozart’s Requiem and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons played out to a transfixing degree, in stunning and oft-historic venues like the Athenaeum Theatre and Collingwood Town Hall. 

Multiple locations, see website for more details

Plan a Meet-Cute Within the Pages of the City’s Gorgeous State Library

For a first date that feels straight out of a rom-com, the State Library is your perfect setting. Surrounded by endless shelves of books, you and your number one cutie can each choose a title that captures the vibe of your connection. Share your picks (and a few flirtatious glances) beneath the grand domed ceiling, then settle in to flip through the pages and see if they’ve read you right.

For a playful twist, rent your books and head to the library lawn with delicious takeout tacos from CDMX in Melbourne Central, turning your literary adventure into a charming, relaxed date idea in Melbourne.

328 Swanston Street, Melbourne 

See a Show at Malthouse Theatre 

Set within the Ngargee Courtyard beside the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, Malthouse Theatre offers a date night steeped in drama, creativity, and a touch of Melbourne magic. From bold new theatre to live music, dance, and comedy, every performance pulses with energy. The setting is just as captivating — an intimate indoor stage and an open-air amphitheatre where stories unfold under the stars. It’s a place where art and atmosphere meet, and the city’s cultural heart beats loud enough to sweep you away.

The Malthouse, 113 Sturt Street, Southbank

Cosy Up With Some Live Jazz 

Star in your own version of Midnight in Paris with a visit to Paris Cat Jazz Club, which will transport you to the French jazz bars of the ’20s and ’30s without stepping a toe outside the CBD. Hidden down an alleyway (of course), it might take you a while to find, but you’ll be rewarded with cosy, candlelit rooms and intimate performances of swing, soul, blues, bebop and funk four nights a week. Need we say more?

6 Goldie Place, Melbourne

Spend a Day at Collingwood’s Coolest Arts Precinct

For a date steeped in creativity and quiet allure, Collingwood Yards makes an inspired backdrop. This not-for-profit arts precinct hums with the energy of those who live and breathe their craft — galleries brim with thought-provoking works, boutiques offer one-off treasures, and two very different bars invite lingering.

By day, you’ll wander between studios, swapping impressions over coffee; by night, the mood shifts to something more intimate. Share a spritz at Runner Up as the city glows below, or slip into Hope St Radio for pasta, wine, and the easy conversation that follows a day spent in each other’s orbit.

35 Johnston Street, Collingwood 

Try Your Hand at Pottery

Bring out your inner Demi Moore (Ghost, anyone?) at The Wheelhouse. Offering one-off classes where you and your beau can learn the art of throwing on a potter’s wheel, you will be sculpting Ghost-style in no time! The two-hour session includes all clay, tools, glaze and the firing of 1 piece. Once you have mastered the wheel you can book either for one of their six- or eight-week terms, because as we all know- couples that hobby together, stay together.

The Wheelhouse: 174 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne

Get Hot and Steamy 

Are you both in need of a little pampering? Treat yourselves to a full day of relaxation and romance at a luxurious day spa. Unwind together with indulgent massages, soothing body scrubs, rejuvenating facials, and pampering pedicures, all in a serene atmosphere designed for pure bliss. Whether you keep it local in Melbourne or escape to the Mornington Peninsula, where the Peninsula Hot Springs, Alba Thermal Springs, or the newly opened Aurora at Intercontinental Sorrento await, you’ll bask in each other’s company while the stress melts away. Ready your robe and let the relaxation begin.

Appreciate Some Art

For artsy duos, the NGV provides the perfect date night setting. As Australia’s oldest public art gallery, it’s built up a collection with both breadth and depth, spanning everything from irreplaceable classical paintings to contemporary acquisitions from modern masters. In short, this is the place to see your Picassos and Rembrandts. Enter from the famous water wall and make your way around four floors of galleries. Head there before dinner and you will have endless things to discuss.

180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Have a Bingo Date

Brunch, bubbly, and bingo: who says date ideas in Melbourne have to be conventional? At Tokyo Tina in Windsor, every Saturday transforms into a lively celebration with their Bingo Bottomless Brunch. Picture indulging in mouthwatering pork belly bao while sipping free-flowing Prosecco, all set to the infectious energy of a bingo game. Not only do you get to enjoy a delicious spread, but there’s also the thrill of winning exciting prizes. It’s the perfect mix of fun, flavour, and a dash of friendly competition for a truly memorable date.

Saturdays, 12pm & 2.15pm sittings

66A Chapel Street, Windsor

Test Your Cooking Skills

Make your next date night linger in memory with a home-cooked feast from Free to Feed’s immersive cooking classes. This inspired social enterprise brings the world to your chopping board, led by gifted cooks who share the flavours of their homelands — from the fragrant kitchens of Burma to the spice-laden tables of Egypt. You’ll slice, stir and taste your way through recipes handed down like heirlooms, each step enriched with stories that travel far beyond the ingredients. It’s cooking as theatre, culture, and connection all at once — a delicious reminder that the best meals are those made with open hands and open hearts.

205-211 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North

Looking for more date night inspo? We’ve got plenty to keep you and your loved one entertained besides these cute date ideas. From underground cocktail haunts and cosy Melbourne pubs, to weekend getaways and boozy brunches, we’ve whittled down the coolest things to do in Melbourne to make sure your next date night is a complete success.