Achingly hip, staggeringly multicultural, with a laid-back atmosphere and incredible arts scene, Melbourne may not have the jaw-dropping natural setting of its rival Sydney, but in almost every other way it’s at very least the harbour city’s equal. The proliferation of turn-of-the-century architecture here is near enough a reason to visit on its own, and that’s before we’ve even started on the coffee: Melbourne lays a decent claim to being the best place on the planet to grab a cup of jo.
Hotel-speaking, it’s an international business and tourism hub, and the accommodation reflects that. You’re certainly not going to be wanting for choice here, and the usual gallery of good, bad, and ugly is on offer. We’re here to help you make sense of it all, and to select a place to kip down that best suits your individual needs.
From 260 AUD/ night
A short walk from Victoria’s grand parliament buildings and the beautiful Treasury Gardens, this chic hotel, with its stylish modern interiors, provides the perfect place to relax after a day soaking in all the culture that Melbourne has to offer. There’s high speed WiFi throughout, original artworks in the rooms and communal spaces, and even such luxuries as Apple TVs and black-out curtains, so you can catch some sleep even on the sunniest of Aussie days.
From 160 AUD/ night
With stylish exposed brick interiors, mood lighting, and more onsite amenities than most people could use in the space of an ordinary stay, this is a great value property, just a few steps from Melbourne’s famous central Southbank Promenade. It’s perfect for a late afternoon swim and sauna session, before heading out to catch some theatre and grab a bite to eat. The rooms are fitted out right down to kitchenware, and most even have a balcony.
From 162 AUD/ night
Don’t be put off by the Best Western label, this boutique hotel is defiantly not a place of pre-packaged luxury. With plenty of character in a very unique building surrounding a secluded courtyard (complete with a restaurant and pool), this is the perfect place to unwind after traipsing the streets of what at times can prove a tiring metropolis. The rooms are as comfortable and as well accommodated as anyone used to this kind of hotel might expect, boasting flat-screen TVs, WiFi access, and expansive corner-style baths.
From 206 AUD/ night
A little out of Melbourne’s centre, this hotel is located in its more relaxed, up-and-coming Docklands area. Consequently, it’s had plenty of space to play with, and has done so well, boasting an extremely tasteful outdoor pool, and large airy rooms, most of which have water views. Four Points are famous for the comfort of their beds and there’s no exception made here, while of course WiFi and flat-screen TVs come as standard.
From 211 AUD/ night
In Melbourne’s trendy beachside area, which in some places has a kind of pinch-yourself resort-like charm, especially given that it’s right next to the heart of a major world city. The property is located right on the beach itself, with many rooms offering incredible views of the signature bay. Air conditioning and TVs are fitted throughout, and there’s a heated swimming pool, plus a fitness centre, for some light exercise, before sampling the fine dining of St Kilda, or to wind down after a visit to area’s iconic Luna Park.
