The Ultimate Melbourne Honeymoon Guide (2023)

Melbourne is a city that whispers sweet nothings to the hearts of honeymooners. With its dynamic urban charm, breathtaking coastal panoramas, and a treasure trove of romantic escapades, Melbourne beckons lovebirds to embark on a journey of passion and discovery like no other. Here, amidst the bustling city streets and along the tranquil shorelines, you’ll also find the perfect backdrop for crafting memories that will ignite the flames of your love story. Simply put, it is where romance blooms in every corner, inviting you to elevate your love to extraordinary heights!

Where to Stay: The Best Melbourne Hotels for your Honeymoon

Luxury Honeymoon Hotels

1. The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne

This fancy hideaway in the heart of Australia’s most captivating city is a special place designed to create unforgettable honeymoon memories. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be in a world where ancient stories and vibrant cultures mix to set the stage for your romantic getaway. You can also enjoy comfy rooms and suites, personalised just for you both. Plus, you can also savour special dining experiences that honor Melbourne’s rich culinary history, providing a perfect setting for cosy candlelit dinners where your love shines brightest.

The best part is you can also wake up to the lovely sight of hot air balloons drifting gently over the city, or share a romantic moment watching the sunset over Port Phillip Bay and Victoria Harbour! Taking all of these into consideration, we believe The Ritz-Carlton isn’t just a hotel. It is also a timeless place where your love, romance, and culture come together to create the most cherished moments of your honeymoon.

2. Crown Towers Melbourne

Nestled along the scenic Yarra River’s southern bank, Crown Towers is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable honeymoon. Luxury and romance intertwine to set the stage for your love story. With lavish accommodations, top-notch dining, a world-class casino, and just a short stroll from Melbourne’s bustling CBD, Crown Towers offers the perfect escape. As day turns to night, prepare for enchanting moments as Crown Melbourne also hosts world-renowned artists and performers, ensuring your honeymoon is truly memorable with captivating shows and entertainment year-round.

3. Park Hyatt Melbourne

Nestled near St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Fitzroy Gardens, Park Hyatt Melbourne also offers a special honeymoon in the heart of the city. With 245 beautifully furnished guestrooms and suites, this 5-star hotel in Melbourne’s CBD provides a perfect setting for your romantic getaway. Enjoy a cosy atmosphere, personalised service, and luxurious amenities for an unforgettable honeymoon.

4. Sofitel Melbourne on Collins

For a deeply romantic and meticulously planned journey, choose Sofitel Melbourne On Collins as your honeymoon retreat in the heart of the city. This fusion of timeless French charm and modern luxury invites you and your partner to savour specially curated dining experiences, all while enjoying breathtaking city skyline views. Beyond being a honeymoon destination, Sofitel is a haven for love and culture. Explore ever-changing art exhibitions, immerse yourselves in Melbourne’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene, and paint vivid memories on your honeymoon canvas. It is also where French elegance harmonises with modern romance, providing the perfect backdrop for your dream honeymoon!

5. The Westin Melbourne

The Westin Melbourne welcomes honeymooners to a stylish and comfortable escape in Melbourne’s CBD. Whether you’re celebrating love or enjoying a romantic getaway, their top-notch accommodations and amenities ensure a memorable stay. Recharge with modern comforts, a fitness centre, and a heated indoor pool, and savour delicious dining options. Plus, some rooms also offer private Juliet balconies with stunning CBD views, setting the stage for your honeymoon. The Westin Melbourne redefines your honeymoon with modern comfort and unbeatable convenience, making sure your love story starts enchantingly.

Mid-range Honeymoon Hotels

1. Adelphi Hotel

In the heart of trendy Flinders Lane, this stylish hotel offers honeymooners a dreamy escape. Just a short walk from Federation Square and the National Gallery of Victoria, it’s also perfectly located for romantic exploration. Modern rooms and suites ensure luxurious comfort, while a rooftop pool and deck provide stunning city views. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the creative dessert bar, and enjoy unforgettable dining experiences at the chic cocktail bar and upscale restaurant. With excellent meeting facilities available, this stunning hotel sets the stage for a love-filled, adventurous honeymoon in Melbourne.

2. Novotel Melbourne On Collins

Elevate your honeymoon with modern style and the comfort of a 4.5-star hotel at Novotel Melbourne on Collins. Located on trendy Collins Street, above St Collins Lane shopping centre, it’s perfect for shopping together. This prime location also puts you close to Melbourne’s famous venues like Rod Laver Arena, the MCG, Federation Square, and the Princess and Regent Theatres, ensuring you can explore all that this captivating city has to offer as newlyweds.

3. The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins Melbourne

The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins invites you to embark on a timeless and deeply romantic journey in Melbourne’s heart. This iconic hotel, with a captivating history of hosting famous guests, blends contemporary design with its Art Deco origins, creating a unique gem of individual character and allure since its 1866 inception. Stepping inside, you’ll also immediately feel enchanted by its undeniable charm and rich stories. The stylish lobby also welcomes you with an inviting atmosphere, warm wood, mirrors, brass accents, and comfortable furnishings, setting the stage for a honeymoon filled with timeless elegance and romantic history.

4. Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne

Elevate your honeymoon at Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne, where romance and adventure meet in the city’s heart. Located on Lonsdale Street in the enchanting theatre district, this excellently situated property is ready to fulfill your desires, whether for intimate moments or a chic backdrop to your love story. With easy access to theaters, Chinatown shopping, diverse dining, lively nightlife, and Melbourne CBD, Hotel Grand Chancellor sets the stage for a honeymoon filled with endless possibilities.

5. Travelodge Hotel Melbourne Docklands

We like the Travelodge Hotel Melbourne Docklands since it is a strategic choice for entertainment-loving couples, especially AFL fans. Located near Marvel Stadium and Southern Cross Station, it offers easy access to Melbourne’s attractions, including the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground, Crown Casino, Melbourne Aquarium, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Exhibition Centre, and Harbour Town Docklands.

What makes this place even more special is the high-end shopping and delightful waterside dining options in the area, perfect for creating cherished memories during your stay. And inside the hotel’s 291 cosy guest rooms, you’ll also find amenities that make you feel right at home, including plush king-sized beds, flat-screen TVs, complimentary WiFi, and well-equipped kitchenettes with handy microwaves.

Budget Honeymoon Hotels

1. Seasons Botanic Gardens

Seasons Botanic Gardens is a serene retreat perfect for budget-conscious honeymooners seeking tranquility and vibrancy. Adjacent to the revered Shrine of Remembrance and Melbourne’s lush Royal Botanic Gardens, it offers a historic and memorable start to your journey together. With easy access to public transport, you can also explore the city, including cultural attractions like the Arts Centre, Southbank, the CBD, and Federation Square. Plus, you’ll also find a wealth of dining options for your evenings together. The hotel offers spacious studios and one- to two-bedroom apartments, each equipped with a stylish kitchen, laundry facilities, and cosy living and dining spaces—your perfect honeymoon home away from home.

2. Park Regis Griffin Suites

At Park Regis Griffin Suites, you can find cosy studios and spacious one- to two-bedroom apartments for a charming home away from home. Each apartment features a fully-equipped kitchen with all the essentials for short romantic getaways or extended stays in Melbourne. They also offer various well-designed hotel rooms to suit your needs!

3. Brady Hotels Jones Lane

Brady Hotels, a 20-floor tower nestled amidst Melbourne’s vibrant dining, theatre, and business scene, offers 153 stylish guest rooms. Each room is thoughtfully designed with modern amenities, including Hypnos ‘Dreamer’ King Beds and custom-made furniture for an even cozier romantic getaway. Also, your room isn’t just a place to stay; it’s where your love story unfolds. Stay connected with fast Wi-Fi, maintain your fitness routine in the gym, and keep your clothes fresh with the guest laundry. What truly sets Brady Hotels apart is their commitment to helping you explore Melbourne like a local during your honeymoon. Their friendly Front Desk team is eager to share hidden gems, ensuring an authentic Melbourne experience at every turn!

4. Adara St Kilda

Adara St Kilda is a welcoming 3.5-star serviced apartment property in the lively St Kilda neighbourhood, perfect for honeymooners seeking a memorable escape. Nestled between St Kilda Road and Chapel Street, it’s conveniently located just moments from Melbourne’s CBD and the iconic St. Kilda beachfront. Step into your cosy serviced apartment and immediately feel at home amidst warmth and sophistication, setting the stage for your romantic getaway. The well-appointed kitchen also features top-of-the-line European appliances, perfect for intimate meals together. Plus, with laundry facilities in every apartment, you’ll have everything you need for a carefree and intimate stay.

5. Atlantis Hotel Melbourne

Experience a memorable honeymoon at the 4-Star Atlantis Hotel, where a cosy and inviting atmosphere welcomes couples. In their 232 guest rooms, you’ll find a comfortable retreat with modern furnishings, 32-inch flat-panel LCD TVs, plush beds, and some with captivating City or Docklands views. Best of all, these amenities come at a fair price! Whether you’re celebrating love or exploring Melbourne’s charming streets, Atlantis Hotel serves as your gateway to the heart of the city.

Things to Do: Melbourne Honeymoon Experiences

1. Let love soar to new heights with a romantic hot-air balloon journey

Melbourne offers a wide range of romantic activities that will make your honeymoon unforgettable. Start your day with a hot air balloon ride over the city, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of Melbourne’s skyline and surrounding countryside. 

Our recommendations:

• Global Ballooning Australia: Elevate your honeymoon with Global Ballooning Australia, Victoria’s largest and safest ballooning company (CASA standards). Share a unique 365-degree view of Melbourne and create unforgettable memories. Capture the magic with complimentary in-flight photos and receive a digital flight certificate to commemorate this special shared experience!
• Klook Melbourne Hot Air Balloon Flight: Celebrate your honeymoon with a mesmerising sunrise hot air balloon flight 2,000 ft above Melbourne with this package. You can also enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city skyline, the Yarra River, and famous landmarks like the Australian Open Tennis Centre and the MCG.
• Liberty Balloon Flights: Enhance your honeymoon with magic on a Liberty Balloon Flights journey, known for captivating Sunrise Flights over Melbourne. Experience the city awakening at its most enchanting time, as you and your loved one drift in a timeless capsule, leaving the hustle and bustle behind for an intimate adventure that will forever hold a special place in your hearts.

2. Experience the stunning sights of Melbourne city 

Our recommendations:

• Melbourne Skydeck: Here, you’ll be captivated by breathtaking 360-degree city views. Share provided binoculars and viewfinders to spot iconic landmarks in the CBD, Port Phillip Bay, and the Dandenong Ranges. For an extra thrill, step onto The Terrace or upgrade to The Edge, a glass cube, for unforgettable and intimate moments together, soaking in Melbourne’s beauty from dizzying heights. It’s the perfect start to your journey as newlyweds!
• Naked for Satan: Elevate your honeymoon skyline experience at Naked for Satan, an iconic Fitzroy restaurant with panoramic CBD views. On the first level, discover the Naked for Satan bar and eatery, while the rooftop terrace hosts Naked Upstairs, a bar, lounge, and restaurant. With an extensive menu of cocktails, craft beers, and house-infused vodkas, it promises a delightful blend of drinks and mouthwatering meals for an unforgettable romantic experience!
• Bomba: Bomba Bar is your go-to for an unforgettable evening in Melbourne. With captivating CBD views to the south and a serene Lonsdale Street treetop overlook to the north, it offers the perfect backdrop for pre and post-dinner drinks, casual snacks, or a leisurely and lively evening. Join on Fridays and Saturdays to groove to talented DJs, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere and making your night at Bomba Bar unforgettable!

3. Go to a museum or see a play at one of Melbourne’s well-known theatres to experience its cultural side

Our recommendations:

• National Gallery of Victoria:  For a personal and artistic journey, the National Gallery of Victoria is a must on your honeymoon itinerary. As Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum, it invites you to explore over 75,000 artworks from around the world. Whether you’re art enthusiasts or seeking inspiration, the NGV offers a unique opportunity to connect with creativity and history together.
• Princess Theatre:  Ignite honeymoon romance with a magical evening at Melbourne’s historic Princess Theatre in the East End Theatre District. Its stunning architecture and rich history set the stage for world-renowned productions, captivating hearts for generations.
• The Regent Theatre:  Surviving fires, floods, darkness, and threats of demolition, the iconic Regent Theatre was lovingly restored by Marriner Theatres in August 1996. Now, it shines brighter than ever, seating up to 1,794 patrons across two levels. Its bespoke original features, magnificent chandeliers, plush, comfortable seating, and beautiful proscenium showcase not just a venue but also unwavering determination and timeless elegance.
• Her Majesty’s Theatre:  Steeped in charm and history, this century-old venue delights audiences with ornate decor and exceptional acoustics. It offers the perfect backdrop for you and your partner to immerse yourselves in world-class musicals, operas, and performances.

4. Satisfy your foodie desires with an exciting culinary exploration

Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise with a diverse culinary scene. Explore the city’s neighborhoods, from CBD laneways to Fitzroy’s trendy spots, on a gastronomic journey with your partner. Savor Melbourne-style brunch, fusion cuisine, or a romantic dinner at fine dining establishments. Also, don’t miss exploring the nearby Yarra Valley’s wine regions, where you can enjoy award-winning wines amidst stunning vineyard landscapes on a memorable wine tour!

Our recommendations:

• Gimlet at Cavendish House: This meticulously curated cocktail bar and dining room by Andrew McConnell and Acme & Co. invites honeymooners to embrace classic European allure. From oysters and delectable snacks to shared wood-fired meats and seafood, the menu adapts to your every desire. The bar, resembling a captivating theatre, also offers classic cocktails and an extensive selection of world wines, making every sip and bite a cherished memory of your honeymoon filled with timeless romance.
• Marion Wine Bar: Marion Wine Bar in Fitzroy harmoniously blends Melbourne’s wine and dining culture. It’s also a welcoming space where wine enthusiasts and food lovers can relish a curated selection of natural wines paired with locally sourced, seasonal dishes. With its relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, Marion is a beloved destination for couples seeking to unwind and indulge together.
• La Luna Bistro: This Carlton gem is your ideal spot to savour love’s flavor on your Melbourne honeymoon. Blending European traditions with Australian ingredients, it mirrors your unique journey together. Enjoy fresh, homemade pasta, garden-fresh herbs, and daily deliveries of fish and seafood from trusted suppliers.
• Etta: Etta’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing shines through in its menu, featuring inventive dishes crafted from local ingredients. What also sets Etta apart is its cosy local dining room, seamlessly becoming an extension of the neighbourhood. Here, you’ll also find a delightful blend of simple, generous, and familiar flavours, served with the same warmth and welcome that reside in our hearts!

5. Take a romantic walk along St. Kilda Beach

Our recommended stays:

• The Prince Hotel:  The Prince, a boutique hotel in the heart of St Kilda, is a 5-minute walk from the beach. Each room combines comfort and style with high-quality linens and cosy bathrobes. Warm timber furnishings and soothing pastel colours ensure your stay is all about relaxation and indulgence. Plus, enjoy free Wi-Fi and parking for a simple and enjoyable experience!
• Saint Kilda Beach Hotel:  Experience stylish and convenient accommodation just a 5-minute stroll from St Kilda Beach. The hotel, with a welcoming café, ensures a comfortable and connected stay with complimentary WiFi. Each room offers modern amenities, including a minibar and a private bathroom. Some rooms even feature a spa bath and flat-screen TV for added luxury. Whether it’s the beach or the vibrant local scene, this hotel is your ideal coastal retreat!
• Tolarno Hotel: Beyond its chic accommodations, the hotel supports local talent by awarding art prizes to nearby college students’ exceptional works, displayed in the foyer for an inspiring atmosphere. Just a short 700-metre walk from St Kilda Beach, you and your loved one can embrace the vibrant fusion of art, culture, and coastal beauty that defines Melbourne!

6. Enjoy relaxing and rejuvenating activities designed for couples in Melbourne

After exploring the city’s vibrant attractions, take time to relax and rejuvenate together. Melbourne offers wellness retreats and day spas for couples’ massages, soothing baths, and rejuvenating treatments. Unwind in a thermal spa, enjoy a mineral pool dip, or simply relax in a tranquil setting. These experiences will not only help you relax but also deepen your connection, making your honeymoon truly blissful.

Our recommended spas:

• Chuan Spa, The Langham:  Experience rejuvenation at their serene spa with TCM-inspired massages and advanced skincare. You can also relax, renew, and find balance with expert therapists in 12 tranquil rooms, including a couple’s suite and a VIP suite. Luxurious amenities complete your enchanting honeymoon here!
• Crown Spa, Crown Towers Melbourne: Nestled within Crown Towers, this is your serene sanctuary for a respite from daily life. The Crown Towers Doorman will warmly greet you, while skilled therapists will create a personalised, tranquil honeymoon experience.
• Park Club Health & Day Spa at the Park, Park Hyatt: The Park Club Health & Day Spa is a tranquil place for honeymooners to relax and revitalise, focusing on both inner well-being and outer beauty. Their spa treatments also focus on four pillars of wellness: nutrition, exercise, mental peace, and body care!

7. Delight in a calming walk or a leisurely picnic outdoors

Amidst the bustling urban landscape, Melbourne also offers serene pockets of greenery, like the Royal Botanic Gardens. It is where you can escape the city’s pace and immerse yourselves in each other’s company. This captivating setting also invites you to savour delectable picnics, elevating your honeymoon to a cherished, intimate experience. We think it is also a delightful way to embrace Melbourne’s natural beauty!

8. Embrace adventure through skydiving or ziplining experiences

Our recommendations:

• Skydive: Experience the ultimate thrill with Skydive Australia’s Tandem Skydive in Melbourne. Speed through the skies at 200 km/h for a unique view of the city. Also, it is conveniently located just 6 km from the city centre, so it’s an awe-inspiring adventure for honeymooners like you!
• Livewire Park: Elevate your honeymoon with outdoor adventures at Live Wire Park, Australia’s first off-grid elevated adventure park. Glide through the forest canopy, conquer treetop challenges, and enjoy eco-friendly romance, powered by solar energy and a responsible water system!

9. Go on a romantic boat ride along the river or have a nice dinner cruise

Our recommendations:

• Yarra River Cruises: Enhance your dream honeymoon with the Melba Star, an exclusive corporate cruiser since 1987. Glide through Melbourne’s parks, gardens, ports, and Docklands. Customisable cruise durations also put the focus on you, ensuring every moment aligns with your love story. Also, enjoy ample seating, cozy heating, private washrooms, and a spacious sundeck for the perfect romantic atmosphere!
• Melbourne River Cruises: Melbourne River Cruises isn’t just a boat ride; it’s also a journey through Melbourne’s history and charm on the Yarra River. Their Cruising Restaurant also elevates dining with changing river and city views for unforgettable honeymoon moments.

10. Enjoy a romantic ride in a horse-drawn carriage

Amid Melbourne’s iconic landmarks, this intimate journey lets you savour the city’s beauty and forge lasting memories. Whether under the moon or the sun, a Melbourne horse-drawn carriage ride adds a touch of magic to your honeymoon, an experience you’ll cherish forever.

For an unforgettable honeymoon experience, we highly recommend booking a romantic tour with Melbourne Horse & Carriagen Tours by Classic Carriage Hire. You can indulge in the ultimate Melbourne sightseeing adventure aboard a prestigious horse-drawn carriage, with a variety of enchanting packages to choose from!

Best Time for a Romantic Melbourne Honeymoon

Melbourne boasts a temperate climate, making it a year-round honeymoon destination. However, the best times to visit are spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). During these seasons, the pleasant weather and vibrant events and festivals make the city come alive. Whether you prefer blooming flowers or vibrant foliage as your honeymoon backdrop, Melbourne offers it all!

Tips for planning a romantic itinerary in Melbourne

When planning your Melbourne itinerary, consider your shared interests and tailor your activities accordingly. Dive into the city’s arts and culture scene, explore hidden laneways, and embrace its diverse neighbourhoods. Make space for spontaneity and get lost in the city’s charm. Most importantly, cherish each other’s company and create beautiful, lasting memories during your romantic getaway.

How many days are enough to explore Melbourne?

Getting to Melbourne: Flights and Transportation

No matter your departure point, the journey to Melbourne promises excitement. To find the easiest way, inquire with airlines offering direct flights from your country. If not, websites like Booking.com, Agoda, or Skyscanner are useful for exploring flight options.

Visa requirements and other practical information

Unless you’re an Australian or New Zealand citizen, you’ll need a visa to enter Australia. All other passport holders must apply for one before leaving home. But no need to stress – getting one is easy. Visit your nearest Australian Consulate for assistance, or if you prefer online options, some visas can be sorted out digitally as well. But also remember that travel regulations can change regularly, so it’s a savvy move to keep an eye on updates and consult official government travel advice before you seal the deal on your dream honeymoon.

Conclusion

Melbourne offers the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and relaxation for honeymooners. From vibrant neighbourhood explorations to fine dining experiences, Melbourne has it all. Whether you’re strolling along the Yarra River or sipping wine in the Yarra Valley, your Melbourne honeymoon promises unforgettable moments. So pack your bags, embark on this romantic adventure, and let Melbourne be the backdrop for your love story.

This article was last updated on 07 September 2023.

This post was brought to you by The Wedding Vow.

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