Melbourne, a ripper city with a beaut mix of urban life and lush nature, is an ace spot for couples lookin' to tie the knot in a stunning setting. Whether you’re keen on sayin' "I do" under a canopy of trees, by a peaceful lake, or in a perfectly manicured garden, the city’s parks and gardens are packed with cracking venues that’ll make your big day unforgettable. Here’s the lowdown on some of the best garden wedding spots in Melbourne, offering top-notch scenery and easy access for your special day.

Why Choose a Park or Garden Wedding in Melbourne?

Before we dive into the best spots, let's have a chinwag about why a park or garden wedding in Melbourne might be a bonza idea. Melbourne is blessed with green spaces that are not only dead-set stunning but also easy on the pocket. You get the natural charm of the great outdoors as the perfect backdrop, plus it's an option that suits everything from a quiet elopement to a big ol' shindig!

Key Benefits:

Affordable: Most parks and gardens offer low-cost or even free permits, perfect for couples on a tight budget.
Natural Beauty: With lush greenery all around, you won’t need to fork out for loads of extra décor.
Versatile Spaces: Melbourne’s parks can host everything from a rustic bash to an elegant affair.
Flexible Guest Sizes: Whether it’s an intimate do or a big celebration, there’s a spot to suit you.

Now, let’s get into the top parks and gardens for weddings in Melbourne that’ll knock your socks off.

1. St Kilda Botanic Gardens

For those after a garden wedding with a coastal twist, St Kilda Botanic Gardens is a hidden gem. Close to the beach, these gardens offer a laid-back, intimate feel with all the beauty of lush greenery and floral displays.

Best Wedding Spots: The rose garden and the central pond are both popular choices for saying "I do."
Why It’s Perfect: The relaxed charm of St Kilda mixed with the lush beauty of the botanic gardens is a winning combo for couples after a more chilled-out, intimate wedding.
Permits: Permits are needed for weddings here, and the City of Port Phillip handles the bookings.

2. Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens is hands down one of the most iconic wedding spots in Melbourne. It’s no wonder it’s often considered the best garden wedding in Melbourne. Spread over 94 acres, the gardens are packed with beautiful lakes, lush lawns, and stunning plant life. Whether you’re after an intimate ceremony or a big party, there’s a perfect spot in the gardens to suit your day.

Best Wedding Spots: The Ornamental Lake, Rose Pavilion, and Guilfoyle’s Volcano are top spots couples rave about.

Why It’s Perfect: The serene natural setting, mixed with privacy, makes it ideal for couples lookin' for a peaceful place to say "I do."
Permits: Yep, you’ll need a wedding permit, but there’s plenty of flexibility with location and guest numbers.

3. Fitzroy Gardens

Right smack in the heart of Melbourne, Fitzroy Gardens is another ripper choice for those after the best garden wedding in Melbourne. It’s got a real historic vibe with tree-lined avenues, fountains, and perfectly manicured flower beds. It’s a beaut spot if you’re after a mix of elegance and tradition for your big day.

Top Wedding Spots: The Conservatory is a fave with its indoor space full of seasonal flowers. The Old Bandstand is a ripper outdoor option for an open-air ceremony.
Why It’s Perfect: Fitzroy Gardens gives you indoor and outdoor choices, which is handy when Melbourne’s weather can be a bit dodgy.
Permits: No need for a permit especially if you are having less than 10 guests.

Fitzroy gardens wedding photos — Photo by: Leo Farrell

4. Albert Park Lake

Albert Park might be known for the Grand Prix, but it’s also a cracking spot for weddings. With its calm lake, wide-open spaces, and killer views of the Melbourne skyline, it’s one of the top parks in Melbourne for couples after a relaxed, natural vibe.

Best Wedding Spots: There are a few choice spots around the lake with ace views of the water and the city skyline. Getting hitched by the lake at sunset? Now that’s a memory.
Why It’s Perfect: It’s the best of both worlds – a chilled park setting with modern city views. Ideal if you want to mix nature with a bit of urban chic.

Permits: Permits are a must, but there are heaps of options depending on how many guests you’ve got and where you want to be.

Albert Park Lane wedding — Photo by: @jacksongrantweddings

5. Alexandra Gardens

Tucked alongside the Yarra River, Alexandra Gardens is a bit of a hidden gem among the top parks and gardens for weddings in Melbourne. With its sprawling lawns, towering palms, and riverside views, it’s an elegant yet low-key spot for your nuptials.

Best Wedding Spots: The grassy patches near the riverbank are a winner, offering both river views and lush green backdrops. Plus, Federation Square is just nearby if you’re looking for a place to continue the celebrations.
Why It’s Perfect: Perfect for couples keen on a riverside wedding without having to trek too far from the heart of Melbourne.

Permits: Like most public parks, a permit is needed to lock in your spot.

6. Yarra Bend Park

For couples after a bit more peace and quiet, Yarra Bend Park is a top-notch choice. Just a short hop from the CBD, this massive natural reserve boasts woodlands, riverside views, and a bit of wildlife. It’s a corker of a spot if you want to get hitched surrounded by the Aussie bush.

Best Wedding Spots: The Bellbird Picnic Area and Studley Park Boathouse are both ace spots by the river, great for a more intimate affair.
Why It’s Perfect: Yarra Bend Park is all about peace and quiet – you’ll feel a million miles from the city, making it ideal for a laid-back, nature-lovers’ wedding.

Permits: Like the other parks, you’ll need a permit, and the park has plenty of locations to suit different wedding vibes.

Yarra Bend Park wedding — Photo by: @danibartlettphotography

7. Werribee Park

If you’re looking for a venue that’s both historical and drop-dead gorgeous, Werribee Park is a cracker. Home to the grand Werribee Mansion and acres of pristine gardens, it’s a place that oozes elegance and charm.

Best Wedding Spots: The formal gardens in front of the mansion are a top pick for couples after a posh setting, while the rose garden is a romantic spot, especially when it’s in bloom.
Why It’s Perfect: Werribee Park gives you a bit of old-world luxury with natural beauty – perfect if you want a fancy but still outdoorsy vibe.
Permits: Yep, you’ll need a permit, and there are a few different packages available depending on what you’re after.

8. Carlton Gardens

Next to the Melbourne Museum, Carlton Gardens is one of the most iconic places in the city. With its World Heritage status, it’s got fountains, grand avenues, and pristine lawns that make for a seriously classy setting.

Best Wedding Spots: The tree-lined avenues and grand fountain are cracking backdrops for your ceremony and photos.
Why It’s Perfect: Carlton Gardens offers a unique combo of heritage architecture and lush greenery – perfect for a sophisticated garden wedding.
Permits: This is a popular spot, so be sure to get your permit sorted well ahead of time.

Melbourne’s parks and gardens offer some of the best spots for weddings, no matter what kind of day you’re dreaming of and there’s no shortage of options for couples lookin' to celebrate their big day surrounded by nature! So, grab your permits early, pick a spot that reflects who you are as a couple, and get ready to create memories that’ll last a lifetime. Melbourne’s parks and gardens are ready and waiting for you to kick off your love story!