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Australia/Things to Do in Melbourne, couple trip

State Library Victoria (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is State Library Victoria?

81%Couple-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Couples can take self-guided audio walks, attend evening talks or before-hours tours, share photos in the Dome, and relax in on-site cafés, offering rich joint experiences though romance is secondary.

Google
Reviews4.8/ 5
(from 3,720 reviews)
State Library Victoria | Melbourne | Australia | Things To Do In Melbourne | Travel Vlog
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State Library Victoria | Melbourne | Australia | Things To Do In Melbourne | Travel Vlog
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Positives:

  • Central location: Located on Swanston Street, easy to reach by tram or on foot.
  • Free entry: Most tours and galleries are free of charge.
  • Café options: Mr Tulk and Guild Café serve light meals and hot drinks inside.

Challenges:

  • Booking required: Reserve spots for guided tours online; last-minute availability is limited.
  • Quiet zones: Keep noise low in reading rooms and galleries to respect other visitors.
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🏖️ Explore State Library Victoria with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around State Library Victoria. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is State Library Victoria?

  • A state landmark erected in 1856 that occupies a full city block and serves as Victoria’s main public library
  • A research institution that preserves over two million books, manuscripts, maps and multimedia recordings
  • A heritage-listed complex centred on the six-storey domed La Trobe Reading Room and complemented by modern galleries and study facilities

What is so special about State Library Victoria for couple trip?

  1. Walk through 150+ years of library history with the Wander digital tour
  2. Join free guided tours to view rare books in the Dome Galleries
  3. Marvel at the six-storey La Trobe Reading Room under its glass dome
  4. Book an exclusive before-hours tour to explore hidden areas
  5. Relax with coffee and pastries at on-site cafés

Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours

Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a guided tour and a relaxed visit to the La Trobe Reading Room.

(View State Library Victoria on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in State Library Victoria

Wander: Self-Guided Digital Tour:

Scan the QR code in the Swanston Street Welcome Zone and follow a 1-hour audio-visual tour on your phone.

Tip: Put on headphones and pause to discuss the architecture and hidden stories together.

World of the Book Guided Tour:

Join the free 11 am or 2 pm walk through the Dome Galleries to see 300+ rare books.

Tip: Book your spots online in advance to visit during quieter moments.

Explore the La Trobe Reading Room:

Step into the six-storey domed room and admire the green-glass lamps and original oak chairs.

Tip: Take a selfie under the Dome and look for the tiny busts carved into the balcony.

Before-Hours Guided Tour:

Book the 90-minute pre-opening tour to explore hidden stairwells, catacombs and the Dome in quiet light.

Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early at the Victoria Street entrance to meet your guide.

Library Up Late:

Attend the monthly after-hours event for live music, art projections and food trucks on the forecourt lawn.

Tip: Check the calendar and buy tickets early as events sell out.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to State Library Victoria

  1. Use the QR code: Start the Wander tour immediately by scanning the code in the Welcome Zone.
  2. Combine tours: Book a morning guided tour, then spend time exploring the Reading Room.
  3. Time your café break: Visit cafés between tours to avoid peak queues during lunch.
🏖️ Tour State Library Victoria like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in State Library Victoria. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of State Library Victoria

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Steve Bintley

Steve Bintley

Jun 2025

This is a must visit for anyone’s first time in the city. The building is impressive enough from the outside, but the main library area inside is truly stunning. It’s great that accessing the viewing gallery is free and it really is worth taking the trip to the top. Admiring such a symmetrical and peaceful landmark from above makes it obvious why it’s so famous and it remained the most memorable l...

A D

A D

Jun 2025

Awesome library, greatly enjoyed the hour long tour. History of the library, the architecture, paintings, the 21st century renovation project, reading rooms, hubs and everything was explained very nicely by the tour guide. Grand LaTrobe room is the highlight of the tour. Ned Kelly armour is in display too. It was good to see how popular the library is even in the digital age with most of the libra...

Greg Crump

Greg Crump

Jun 2025

The State Library is a fantastic place to visit. Free to get in and so much more than just books. Lots of free exhibitions and special events. The art collection is stunning and tells the history of Victoria. Highly recommend. Also a great place to relax, study or read a book.

Dan P

Dan P

Jun 2025

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A peaceful gem in the middle of the city! We really enjoyed exploring the State Library Victoria — such a calm and beautiful space right in the heart of the city! The architecture is stunning, and the building itself feels grand yet welcoming. It’s one of those places where you can take things slow, wander around, and just soak in the atmosphere. One thing I loved was the open outdoor...

Akrem Jaouadi

Akrem Jaouadi

Jun 2025

For an enriching experience in Melbourne, visit the magnificent State Library Victoria. This architecturally stunning building houses millions of books, providing a quiet haven for readers and researchers alike. What's even better? Access is completely free! Just remember to maintain a hushed environment, as many people are deeply immersed in their studies and reading.

When is the best time to visit State Library Victoria (Melbourne, Australia)?

In summer arrive before 10 am to avoid crowds; in winter pair your visit with a hot drink at Mr Tulk Café.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Melbourne on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Self-guided digital tourAUD 0
World of the Book guided tourAUD 0
Before-Hours Guided Tour (2 pax)AUD 78
Coffee break at Mr Tulk Café (2)AUD 12
Total EstimatedAUD 90

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of State Library Victoria

Address: 328 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

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About State Library Victoria

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+61 3 8664 7000

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