Cheap Date Ideas in Melbourne: Fun, Romantic and Affordable

Overview

• Dating on a budget
  • Explore Melbourne’s parks and gardens
  • Visit local markets
  • Explore Melbourne’s art scene
  • Take a walk
  • Coffee dates
• Should you split the bill on a date?

In today’s economy, finding affordable yet enjoyable ways to spend time with a date or partner is essential. If you’re saving up for something bigger – like a holiday, moving house, or just sticking to your budget but still want to have an active social life. Melbourne, with its vibrant culture and scenic beauty, offers plenty of opportunities for memorable dates that won’t strain your wallet.
Whether you’re on dating apps and the frequency of dates is getting expensive, or you have found the one and prefer more budget-friendly outings while you save for other things, these ideas are for you.

Explore Melbourne’s parks and gardens

Melbourne is home to numerous beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for a relaxing and romantic date:

1. Royal Botanic Gardens

Spend the day exploring the Royal Botanic Gardens,one of the city’s most iconic natural landmarks. Pack some snacks and a picnic rug, and enjoy lakeside views, native flora, and birdlife.

2. Fitzroy Gardens

For something a little more quaint, Fitzroy Gardens is another excellent choice. You can explore the charming Conservatory and the historic Cooks’ Cottage, or simply lie under the trees. It’s a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering a perfect backdrop for a stroll or a relaxed afternoon on the grass.

Wander through local markets

Melbourne’s markets offer a unique and affordable date experience. Having an activity planned for a date is a great move. It gives you something to do and plenty to talk about when you’re on a budget.

Queen Victoria Market

Stroll through Queen Victoria Market, sample delicious food, and find unique souvenirs. It’s a lively spot that’s perfect for couples who love to explore together. Time your date around one of their night markets for extra atmosphere, live music, and food stalls.

South Melbourne Market

Less touristy but just as lively, South Melbourne Market is also a great option. Known for its fresh produce and vibrant atmosphere, it’s an ideal place to grab a coffee, wander through the stalls, and maybe even pick up some fresh ingredients for a homemade dinner date.

Get creative: explore Melbourne’s art scene

Art galleries are a classic example of “third places” that are good for your well-being and your wallet. Check out Melbourne’s rich art culture without spending a fortune:

National Gallery of Victoria

Visit the National Gallery of Victoria, where admission to the permanent collection is free. Enjoy world-class art and exhibitions. Check the NGV website for free talks and exhibitions throughout the year.

Street art walk

Melbourne’s street art scene is one of the best in the world. Start with Hosier Lane and work your way through laneways in Fitzroy and Collingwood. You’ll find murals, live art installations, and funky bars if you want to extend the night.

Take a scenic walk together

A walk can be both romantic and budget-friendly. Melbourne offers several scenic trails perfect for couples.

St Kilda Beach

Watch the sunset at St Kilda Beach, grab ice cream and stroll along the pier. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the colony of little penguins at dusk.

Yarra River Trail

Start at Federation Square and walk along the Yarra River Trail. This scenic route provides beautiful views of the city and the river. Follow the trail as it winds through parks and under bridges, offering plenty of spots to sit and chat or snap a cute photo together.

Cosy up at a coffee spot

Dinner can be a pricey option for a date, if you’re on dating apps and going out regularly, a few dinner dates will affect your bank balance in a big way.  Rest assured you can confidently pick up the bill at a cosy cafe instead, where you can afford to be generous.

Dymocks Cafe

Head to Dymocks Cafe for a coffee and a slice of cake. Located within the Dymocks bookstore. This inexpensive date option is perfect for a friendly, approachable, first-date. Grab a coffee and browse the bookshelves for shared interests or conversation starters.

Hardware Société

Hardware Société is another wonderful cafe option. Known for its delicious pastries and intimate setting, it’s the kind of spot where brunch turns into hours of chatting.

If you’re unsure who should pay for your date, a simple rule is this: the person who initiates the date generally pays. That said, many couples find it can work best to take turns or shout when you can. Even if there are slightly different costs from date to date, try not to be too particular about it. This keeps things balanced and relaxed without turning dates into a financial stress.

Dating on a budget

Balancing your savings goals with an active dating life can be tricky. But with a bit of creativity and planning, you can still save money and stay on budget. Choosing destinations where you can be generous within your means will leave you feeling good and leave a better impression on your date.

And if you’re working toward a financial goal, Red Tree Finance can help with personal loans to support your journey, so you can keep your love life active.

How do you date on a low budget?

Get outside and get active, a walk or run is free. Walking side by side instead of facing each other across a table can also ease the nerves.

What is the cheapest date possible?

The cheapest date idea is a scenic walk – completely free, no bookings needed. In Melbourne, a stroll along the Yarra River, watching the sunset at St Kilda Beach, or exploring a market can all cost nothing (or next to nothing) and still feel special.

What to do in Melbourne for dates?

There are endless date options in Melbourne. Go to a local market, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, sip coffee at a cute cafe, explore laneway art, or relax on the beach. Whether you want something romantic, active, or quirky, there’s something for every style and budget.

The information provided in this blog is of a general nature and is provided without considering your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or other professional advice.

Before making any financial decisions or taking action based on the information presented, you are strongly encouraged to assess its appropriateness in light of your individual circumstances. Red Tree Finance does not intend to provide personalised financial advice, and you should seek independent financial, legal, tax, and other relevant advice tailored to your unique situation.