Melbourne is my favorite city in Australia. It’s a vibrant, multicultural city known for its rich arts scene, world-class dining, and vibrant atmosphere. It is also a base for backpackers and travelers.
The combination of old world architecture and modern skyscrapers gives the city a unique charm. I especially love strolling through Melbourne’s iconic alleyways, enjoying the colorful street art, and popping into hidden bars.
There are so many things to do here that you can easily spend a week and never get bored. No matter how much time you have, choosing a good hotel is the most important thing. There are many hotels in the city, but not all are good. In fact, I’ve stayed in some absolutely terrible places.
So, to help you make the most of your stay in Melbourne, here is a list of the best hotels in Melbourne.
1. Collins Treasury
This 4-star aparthotel is located in the city’s CBD (Central Business District, the area of Melbourne recommended to most travelers). The building itself is a 19th-century landmark, and the hotel maintains its character while updating the location, with elegant details such as high ceilings and gilded crown moldings in all public spaces. I think they’re doing a great job of maintaining that. The hotel has a fitness center and I love the free happy hour every night. It feels good. A daily buffet breakfast is also complimentary and includes standard items such as hot dishes, pastries, cereals and fresh fruit.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with large windows letting in lots of natural light. We love the simple yet sophisticated design, with neutral tones and high-quality furniture. Suites have a kitchenette with mini-fridge, microwave and Nespresso coffee machine, while full apartments also have a stove and dishwasher. All rooms have a washer/dryer, large TV with Netflix, and a generously sized work desk (something I always appreciate). Bathrooms are modern and clean with walk-in showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels. Overall, this is a great option for travelers who want access to a centrally located luxury hotel kitchen.
Book here!
2. Victoria Hotel
This historic 3-star hotel in the heart of the city was founded in 1880. I love its traditional design. It features a grand entrance, Art Deco decor throughout the lobby, and a restaurant (also serving buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner). The hotel offers basic conveniences such as a fitness center, heated plunge pool, and sauna.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, with a minimalist design that maximizes space. Rooms vary in size, but generally have plenty of space for a city hotel, and large windows provide plenty of natural light. As a solo traveler, I especially liked that it had single rooms, and it’s a good option for budget travelers who want more privacy than staying in a hostel dorm. Each room has the basic amenities including a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee maker, small refrigerator and small workspace. Bathrooms are clean and functional with walk-in showers or shower/tub combinations. I think this is the best choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable stay in the city center.
Book here!
3. W Melbourne
I love this trendy 5 star hotel. It features a bold design and a lively atmosphere. The hotel features sleek, contemporary interiors with funky artwork and neon lighting. Amenities include a 24/7 heated rooftop pool, large high-tech fitness center, and spa. There are also multiple dining options, ranging from stylish cocktail bars to fine dining restaurants serving creative cuisine. Enjoy a wide range of breakfast options, from fresh pastries and fruit to hearty hot meals, in a chic setting.
Our spacious, ultra-modern rooms have an edgy, stylish design. Features a large, comfortable bed, large flat-screen TV with cast function, desk, complimentary bottle of water, and fully stocked minibar. I love the floor-to-ceiling windows that let in so much natural light. The black marble bathroom is sleek and luxurious, with a huge walk-in rain shower, light-up mirror, premium toiletries, ample counter space, and even a heated toilet seat. If you’re looking for a unique, high-end experience in the CBD, stay here.
Book here!
4. Quest St Kilda Bayside
This 4-star apartment hotel is located just minutes from St Kilda Beach, one of my favorite areas in the city. The hotel has a modern, minimalist design and offers a relaxing atmosphere. It features a small outdoor swimming pool, barbecue facilities, gym and secure on-site parking. Although there is no restaurant on site, each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen and there are many cafes and restaurants nearby for breakfast and other meals.
The spacious apartments feature separate living and dining areas as well as a full kitchen with stove, microwave, small refrigerator, toaster and tea/coffee maker. Rooms also include washers/dryers and smart TVs. The bathroom is clean and functional with a walk-in shower with excellent water pressure and nice complimentary toiletries. Overall, the apartment offers a home-like feel and has all the amenities you need for a long stay in a lively area of the city.
Book here!
5. The Langham Hotel
This luxurious 5-star hotel is located on the Yarra River in the heart of Southbank. We love the grand elegance here, from the marble entryway to the chandeliers and luxurious furniture. You can also expect top-notch amenities here, including a beautiful atrium pool, a fully equipped fitness center with sauna and steam room, and a spa known for its superior wellness treatments. The hotel’s restaurant offers a high-end buffet, which can be pricey, but it’s worth a try just for breakfast. It’s very luxurious, with a huge selection of baked goods, an egg station where you can buy benedicts and omelettes, as well as hot dishes like brioche French toast and waffles.
The spacious rooms have a classic, luxurious feel and feature large windows with stunning views of the city skyline or river. Rooms feature luxurious bedding, 55-inch smart TVs, minibars, and work desks. Bathrooms are equally upscale, with marble finishes, soaking tubs, walk-in showers with good water pressure, premium toiletries, fluffy bathrobes, and slippers. If you’re looking for a place to splurge, this is it!
Book here!
6. Ovolo South Yarra
We love the eclectic and colorful design of this trendy 4-star hotel. It’s very retro-chic, with pop art on the walls and funky furniture everywhere. The lobby and common areas are bright and inviting, making it the perfect place to have fun. Hotel amenities include a 24/7 gym and complimentary self-service laundry. There are also fun and unique touches, like a sweets station next to the elevator (with jars of gummy bears, jelly beans, and M&Ms). The on-site restaurant, Lona Mito, serves breakfast in the morning and plant-based cuisine with a Latin twist in the evening.
The rooms are compact but stylish, with a distinctly 1970s feel to the design, with a color palette and quirky decor. Despite their small size, the rooms are well laid out and filled with natural light through large windows. All rooms are soundproofed, blackout blinds and comfortable beds for a good night’s sleep. In-room amenities include a flat-screen TV, Bluetooth speakers, and a faucet with filtered water in the bedroom (which I appreciate, as it helps me avoid single-use plastic bottles). The bathroom is sleek and modern, featuring a rain shower, high-quality toiletries, and a funky tile design. Overall, the rooms offer a cozy and unique experience, perfect for travelers looking for something a little different.
Book here! ***
Melbourne has a laid-back yet cosmopolitan feel that I love. It’s the perfect blend of modern and historic charm, with plenty to see and do. But whatever your reason for visiting the city, you’re sure to have a great time staying at one of the hotels listed above.
Book a trip to Melbourne: Logistics tips and tricks
Book a flight
Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights. These are my favorite search engines because they leave no stone unturned to search websites and airlines all over the world.
Book your accommodation
You can use Booking.com to book your hotel because it always shows you the lowest prices for guesthouses and budget hotels. If you’d rather stay in a hostel instead, book with Hostelworld, which has the largest inventory and best deals.
For hostel recommendations, check out our complete list of the best hostels in Melbourne.
If you want to know the best areas, here is my guide to all the best areas of the city!
Don’t forget travel insurance
Travel insurance protects you from illness, injury, theft, and cancellation. Comprehensive protection in case something goes wrong. I never travel without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Looking for the best company to save money?
Check out my resources page for the best companies to use when traveling. I’ll list everything I use to save money while I’m on the go. You can also save money when traveling.
Want to know more about Melbourne?
For even more planning tips, be sure to check out our comprehensive Melbourne destination guide.
