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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?

86%Couple-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 86% Couple-Friendly: Architectural dome, free or paid guided walks and monthly evening events create cultural dates for couples, yet limited seating together in reading rooms and daylight-only hours reduce romance.

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:

  • Couple-Friendly Spaces: Quiet reading rooms and two cozy onsite cafes offer time to chat over coffee.
  • Free Core Experiences: Key attractions like the La Trobe Reading Room and guided tours cost nothing, ideal for budget-conscious visitors.

Challenges:

  • Booking Required: Guided tours and Salon evenings fill up fast—reserve online several days in advance.
  • Weekend Crowds: Swanston Street entrance can get busy on weekends; arrive early or use Russell Street to enter.
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Found this helpful? Please support us by visiting 🏖️ our GetYourGuide partner link - Activities around State Library Victoria, and we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps us pay the bills and help more travelers!

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. Combine free tours and paid events for a bespoke couple experience
  2. Marvel at the six-storey La Trobe Reading Room under a painted dome
  3. Explore hidden catacombs on a special before-hours tour
  4. Relax together in cozy onsite cafés between exhibits
  5. Enjoy monthly late-night events with live music and installations

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for self-guided tours, main exhibits and a cafe break

(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 for an audio-visual walk through the library’s history.

Tip: Use headphones and pause in the La Trobe Reading Room to chat about hidden stories.

World of the Book Guided Tour:

Join the free 11 am or 2 pm walk through the Dome Galleries to view rare books and manuscripts.

Tip: Book slots in advance on Eventbrite to secure seats side by side.

La Trobe Reading Room:

Enter the six-storey domed reading room with original oak chairs and green-glass lamps.

Tip: Look up at the painted domed ceiling and snap a selfie under the central dome.

Before-Hours Guided Tour:

Book a 90-minute pre-opening tour to explore hidden stairwells and catacombs.

Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early; entry is via the designated tour entrance on Swanston Street.

Library Up Late:

Attend the monthly late-night event with live music and art installations on the front lawn.

Tip: Check the library website for upcoming dates and arrive before sunset for the best spots.

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

Library Up Late and Salon evenings run on set dates—check the online calendar before planning.

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

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Reviews of State Library Victoria (Melbourne)

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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.

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Before-Hours Guided Tour (per person)AUD 39
Salon After D’Arc Evening (per person)AUD 35
Coffee & snack for twoAUD 20
Total EstimatedAUD 158

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

How to Maximize Your Visit to State Library Victoria

  1. Use the QR Tour First: Start with the digital tour to get context before joining in-person guided tours.
  2. Visit Cafés Off-Peak: Grab coffee right before or after scheduled tours to avoid café queues.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Melbourne attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

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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