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.
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.
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.

Steve Bintley
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
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
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
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 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
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.
In summer arrive before 10 am to avoid crowds; in winter pair your visit with a hot drink at Mr Tulk Café.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Self-guided digital tour | AUD 0 |
| World of the Book guided tour | AUD 0 |
| Before-Hours Guided Tour (2 pax) | AUD 78 |
| Coffee break at Mr Tulk Café (2) | AUD 12 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 90 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: 328 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
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