Winter Things To Do in Melbourne

It’s officially the snuggle season. And we’re embracing it with open arms. There is plenty of things do to do in Melbourne near Docklands during winter. The red wine, hearty meals, and woolly scarves and beanies. But Melbourne has a few extra goodies up its sleeve to help you (mentally) escape the chill with your lover this winter. Grab your honey’s hand – we’ve rounded up our favourite must-do dates in the city.

HONEY MOON

Is there anything more romantic than being by your love’s side under the moonlight? Don’t let the winter chill deter you – pull on that beanie and rug up in your warmest jacket because you’re going on a moonlight kayak tour. It’s a particularly adventurous and loved-up way to experience the sites of Melbourne. Beginning just before sunset at Victoria Harbour in the Docklands precinct, it journeys down the Yarra River under the Bolte Bridge, Crown Casino and the historic Princes Bridge before coming to an end in the heart of Melbourne across the river from Federation Square. We won’t give too much away, but you’ll even get to snack on some fish and chips in your boat.

The 2.5-hour tour is $99 per person. Bookings at kayakmelbourne.com.au

TO MARKET

Date night doesn’t always have to fall on the weekend. Grab your better half and get along to the infamous Queen Victoria Market for the exceptional Winter Night Market. Held every Wednesday, there’s live music, quirky entertainers and oh so much shopping from 50 specialty and design stalls. Your tastebuds are sorted, too, with delicious eats from 30 global food traders. There’s traditional Roman pork from Porchetta, Mexican street food at Frank Camorra’s Paco’s Tacos and Taiwanese pancakes with a twist at Butterlake Pancakes. Did we mention roaring open fires? This place has it all.

Join in from 5-10pm every Wednesday from June 7- August 30 at the Queen Victoria Market.

ICE ICE BABY

Take your partner to the coolest place in town, literally. Ice Bar is cooled to -10 degrees and is the ideal place to lure your loved one in for an extra cuddle while sipping on a delicious cocktail. You’ll be provided with snow capes, gloves and Ugg boots, but we recommend wearing long pants and closed shoes into the bar so you can last an extra cocktail longer.

It’s open 11am-10pm Thursday to Monday at 319 Brunswick St, Fitzroy.

DINING

Winter screams hearty meals and mulled wine. After all, we all need our winter coat, right? There’s a host of fun and romantic restaurants to get cosy across the city. Sip margaritas and gorge on tacos at Mamasita in Collins Street, try tapas on the rooftop at Bomba in Lonsdale Street, or opt for a bustling beer hall ambience at Hawker Hall in Windsor. For a lovely night cap, head to St Kilda for matched wine, beer, whisky, cider and cheese flights at Milk The Cow.

For a full list of Melbourne’s best date night restaurants, click here for a comprehensive round-up from Broadsheet.