Melbourne wedding playbook: A guide to your perfect day
From riverside vows to skyline photos, discover when, where, and how to plan a wedding in Melbourne, Australia.
Edited by Sarah Kuta | February 5, 2026
Melbourne, Australia, is a captivating wedding destination, blending timeless romance with contemporary style. Historic churches, elegant gardens, and grand estates sit alongside sleek rooftops and laneway venues, offering options for every couple. The city’s beauty shines in every season, while world-class dining, boutique accommodations, and exceptional vendors make planning effortless and memorable. From intimate ceremonies to lavish celebrations, here’s what to know as you start planning your wedding in Melbourne.
In this article: A guide to getting married in Melbourne
Choosing your season
Choosing your wedding date in Melbourne means balancing the city’s energy with your style. Events like the Australian Open in January, Formula 1 in March, and the Spring Racing Carnival in October and November can influence venue availability and pricing, so booking early can help you secure your preferred location. Shoulder months, like late autumn and winter, typically offer lighter crowds and better value. Melbourne’s weather is famously variable, so a flexible backup plan is always a good idea. For a heritage-rich base no matter the season, Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street is your ideal stay. Situated inside a lovingly restored 1930s building in the Central Business District (CBD), the hotel puts you close to the city’s laneways, galleries, and the Yarra River, while also providing a gorgeous backdrop for your ceremony or reception.
Garden vows at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria offers a lush setting for outdoor ceremonies and wedding photos. This is a popular venue, so be sure to start planning early to secure your ideal dates. Golden hour, just before sunset, brings soft light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for elopements, intimate vows, and relaxed portraits. The Motley Hotel Richmond, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is an artful stay nearby, making it an ideal choice for garden celebrations. Celebrate with a drink at Threads Bar, the rooftop spot offering stunning views of Melbourne's skyline as well as a selection of wines and modern cocktails, before retreating to your elegant guest room for rest and relaxation.
Yarra River and waterfront
The Yarra River sets a romantic stage for riverside promenades, sunset photos, quiet strolls, and even private cruises. For the best light, time your strolls and portraits around golden hour or linger to take in the city lights after dusk. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Melbourne - Flinders Street is located nearby, giving you and your guests easy access to one of the city’s most photogenic spots. Enjoy a warm DoubleTree cookie on arrival, and take advantage of the hotel’s proximity to many of Melbourne’s top laneways, boutiques, and restaurants for shopping and local culinary delights. The hotel also offers a fitness center to help you maintain your workout routine while you’re away.
Rooftops and skyline photos
Melbourne’s skyline is a dramatic backdrop for wedding photos and post-ceremony toasts. The best time for rooftop sessions is late afternoon or early evening, when the city’s light is soft and the skyline is starting to glow. Next Hotel Melbourne, Curio Collection by Hilton is a boutique, design-led base that’s perfect for getting ready, hosting a first look, or enjoying sweeping city views before heading out for your celebration. It’s located in the prestigious Collins Street Precinct, among high fashion and industry hot spots. Enjoy dining and drinks at La Madonna Restaurant & Bar, and check out the curated selection of contemporary art by Jonny Niesche and Julia Gorman in the hotel’s public spaces.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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