Dating in Melbourne

Best first date ideas in Melbourne

• Laneway café crawl
• Rooftop cinema
• Queen Victoria Market

Pick something that lets you talk easily and leave room to extend the date if it's going well. For more inspiration, see 21 first date ideas.

Which dating apps work in Melbourne?

Singles in Melbourne mostly use Hinge, Tinder, Bumble. In a city that is creative, coffee-loving and quirky, profiles that mention specific local favourites — a café, a trail, a venue — tend to get more replies.

Local dating culture

Aussie dating is relaxed and direct. Outdoor, beach and café dates are the norm, and people value honesty over games.

• Casual dress is fine almost everywhere
• Directness is valued
• Offering to shout a round is a friendly gesture

What a date costs

Budget around A$50–A$110 for two for drinks or a casual dinner in Melbourne. Many of the ideas above are free or nearly free.

Safety in Melbourne

Meet in public and be sun- and surf-smart on outdoor dates.