Melbourne is a dynamic and vibrant city in Australia that offers a wide variety of accommodations across different, distinct neighborhoods. In this article, we have hand-selected the best places to stay in Melbourne, ranging from luxury 5-star hotels in the CBD to affordable apartment hotels in Southbank.
You can also check the best hotels near the MCG Stadium.
Melbourne CBD Hotels
The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne
The Ritz-Carlton is one of the most luxurious 5-star hotels in Melbourne, located on the western edge of the CBD. The extravagant hotel is currently the tallest hotel in Australia, set inside a sky-rise spanning 80 stories. Led by local creative BAR Studio, the interior showcases a glamorous design with intricate use of marble, dark wood, and golden touches.
The same lavish theme is also shown across the 257 spacious guest rooms and suites. They are each designed with an elegant neutral palette, accented by bespoke modern furnishing. Besides, you will find top-notch amenities like deluxe bedding, a marble bathroom, and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Another highlight of the hotel is its glamorous indoor pool. Located on level 64, it boasts a panoramic view of the Melbourne city skyline. You will also find a signature spa on the same level, offering multiple treatments with amenities like a steam room, a plunge bath, and lounges. If you want to break a sweat, a 24-hour fitness center is also on-site.
The culinary experience at the hotel is also spectacular. On level 80, Atria specializes in modern Australian cuisine (particularly local seafood) using hyper-seasonal produce. Located next door, Cameo is an intimate bar serving luxurious cocktails with rare and antique spirits.
W Melbourne
W Melbourne is one of the most eclectic 5-star hotels in the city, located on the southern side of the CBD. Opened in February 2021, the luxury hotel is situated inside a striking sculptural architecture designed by Woods Bagot, SHoP Architects, and Hachem. Echoing the dramatic facade, you will find a bold and experiential design throughout the interior.
The design-centric hotel boasts 294 guest rooms and suites. They come in a sleek white and dark grey palette, highlighted by vibrant and almost futuristic furnishing. You will also have upscale amenities, including deluxe bedding, a marble bathroom, Davines toiletries, a TV, and fast wifi.
Continuing with the quirky theme, the hotel’s indoor pool deck features a refreshing white, gold, and wooden theme. You will also have access to a modern fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment. Besides, you will find multiple dining and drinking venues inside the hotel. For instance, Lollo is a modern Australian restaurant with a menu curated from reimagined classics.
QT Melbourne
QT Melbourne is one of the best luxury 5-star hotels in the city with a distinct personality. It occupies a contemporary concrete building with brutalist architectural influences, designed by the renowned studio Candalepas Associates. On the inside, you will find a modern industrial aesthetic with exposed concrete ceilings, quirky and colourful decor, and wooden touches.
You will find a similar industrial design throughout the 188 oversized guest rooms and suites. Much like the communal space, they feature concrete ceilings, modern furnishings, and ample black metal accents. They also come with all your basics, such as comfy bedding, a TV, and fast wifi.
If you want to work out, feel free to check out the compact fitness center with machines and free weights. The hotel is also bringing an eclectic theme to its dining offerings. Pascale Bar & Grill is a dramatic European-style brasserie with a modern menu curated from local produce.
Le Méridien Melbourne
Le Méridien is one of the newest luxury 5-star hotels in Melbourne that opened in March 2023, making it the first hotel in Australia under the French hotel brand. Designed by Peddle Thorp, the interior showcases a modern aesthetic with an ode to mid-century Melbourne.
The 235 guest rooms and suites feature a similar theme. They are designed meticulously with mid-century-inspired wooden furniture and rich French blue touches. They each also come with deluxe bedding, a marble bathroom, a work desk, Malin + Goetz toiletries, a TV, and free wifi.
The showstopper of the hotel is none other than its gorgeous heated rooftop pool and poolside bar, featuring expansive views of the CBD. Besides, you will have access to a modern 24-hour fitness center. The hotel is also bringing the European heritage to its gastronomy. For instance, Dolly Restaurant presents a selection of nostalgic European dishes using local Victorian produce.
Hyatt Centric Melbourne
Hyatt Centric Melbourne is one of the best contemporary 5-star hotels in the CBD, just steps away from Southern Cross Station. The lobby welcomes you with an urban industrial aesthetic, featuring extensive use of smooth brown bricks and black metal accents.
The 277 pet-friendly guest rooms and suites feature a similar design, but a bit more pared back. You will find a soothing white and wooden palette with sleek modern furnishings. The bathroom is also designed stylishly with an intricate mix of bricks, wood, and black marble.
The hotel features a beautiful 25-meter indoor lap pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of traveling. There is, of course, also a 24-hour fitness center with free weights and machines. On level 25, Langlands Restaurant & Bar specializes in upscale Australian cuisine with local produce. Inside the lobby, Allie Lane is a more casual venue with a wide selection of beverages and snacks.
Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street
Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street is one of the best historic 5-star hotels in the city. It currently sits inside The Equity Chambers, a heritage sandstone building designed by Oakley & Parks in 1931. With the help of multiple architectural firms, a six-story extension was recently added to the existing building, and a new 16-level building was also constructed beside it.
The 244 guest rooms and suites have also been completely refurbished to offer modern comfort. They now feature an elegant white and neutral palette with sophisticated furnishing. Some suites in the original building also come with beautiful velvet and dark wooden touches.
During your stay, you will have access to a well-equipped fitness center with a variety of machines and free weights. For meals, Luci is a fabulous fine-dining restaurant that specializes in modern Australian cuisine. On the other hand, The Douglas Club is an Art Deco-inspired cocktail lounge with an expansive drink list and refined small plates.
Quincy Hotel
Quincy Hotel is an eclectic boutique hotel in Melbourne CBD, situated inside a 31-story high-rise. Unlike most conventional hotels, the modern 4-star hotel embraces a variety of eye-catching colours, as shown across the guest rooms and communal spaces.
The hotel offers 214 stylish accommodations. They come in a plethora of styles, revolving around hues of jade, pink, blue, and bright orange. You will also find meticulous furnishing with velvet seating, a black marble table, exposed concrete columns, and a cute ceramic-tiled bathroom.
During your stay, you will have access to a fully equipped gym and a rooftop swimming pool with lounge chairs. You will also find three sophisticated in-house restaurants, all inspired by the hotel’s modern and vibrant aesthetic. For instance, Salted Egg is an eclectic Southeast Asian restaurant that specializes in traditional Thai cuisines such as stir-fries and curries.
Brady Hotels Jones Lane
Brady Hotels Jones Lane is one of the more discreet boutique hotels in Melbourne CBD. The 4-star hotel is housed in a contemporary architecture built by Peddle Thorp and SJB. It features a distinct facade with black brass and perforated metal weaving throughout.
Echoing the facade, 153 guest rooms showcase a similar chic modern industrial charm. You will find a minimalistic black and white palette highlighted by sleek furnishing, metal accents, and bright pops of orange. They also come with sumptuous bedding, a TV, and Urban Skincare toiletries.
The hotel offers a compact gym in the basement with a handful of cardio machines. You will also have access to a self-serve laundry with washing machines and dryers. There are no restaurants in-house, but you will find tons of quality dining options nearby (eg, Pepe’s Italian & Liquor).
Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne
Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne is one of Australia’s most historic hotels, built by leading commercial architect Harry Tompkins back in 1913. The 4-star hotel undertook a major refurbishment program in 2021 in order to enhance the guest experience and renew the interior design.
The hotel has 340 guest rooms and suites, which are designed with a classy white tone that echoes with the heritage-listed building. All rooms are equipped with elegant furniture, comprehensive amenities, and complimentary unlimited wireless Internet access. Some rooms also get a gorgeous view of the Yarra River. There are also multiple bars and restaurants in-house for drinks and meals.
Rendezvous Hotel is located near the Melbourne CBD, surrounded by multiple restaurants, shops, and attractions such as the State Library of Victoria, the National Gallery of Victoria, and the Melbourne Museum. It is also right next to Flinders Street Train Station, which is just 3 minutes away.
The Hotel Windsor Melbourne
The Hotel Windsor Melbourne is one of Australia’s most renowned historic hotels, previously known as The Grand Hotel, designed by famous architect Charles Webb in 1883. It was later renamed The Windsor in 1923 after a series of renovations were completed.
The 5-star heritage-protected hotel has 180 rooms and suites, which are all designed with a classy and historic touch. All rooms come with luxury bedding, comprehensive amenities, and free unlimited internet access. For food lovers, the hotel is also well-known for its British traditional afternoon tea, which has a long-standing history of over 140 years.
The Windsor is located in the center of Melbourne CBD, close to award-winning restaurants such as Aru and Sunda, and attractions including St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Royal Exhibition Building. The Parliament Train Station is a few steps away, and there is also a tram station nearby that provides free transport within the city center.
Southbank Hotels
Crown Metropol Melbourne
Crown Metropol Melbourne is one of the best 5-star hotels in the Southbank district. The luxury hotel is situated inside a contemporary high-rise designed by the renowned architecture firm Bates Smart. It currently boasts 658 guest rooms and suites, making it one of the largest hotels in Australia. The rooms are bright and spacious, all featuring a sleek modern design.
The centerpiece of the hotel is none other than its large light-filled indoor pool. Situated on the 27th floor with large floor-to-ceiling windows, it has some of the best views you will find in the city. During your stay, you will also have access to a spa, an aroma steam room, and a fully-equipped gym.
The hotel presents a wide selection of dining and drinking options on-site. Mr. Hive Kitchen and Bar is a sophisticated modern Australian restaurant with a beautiful selection of cocktails. On the other hand, Bistro Guillaume is a French specialist offering classic dishes and a curated wine list.
AC Hotel by Marriott Southbank
AC Hotel by Marriott Southbank is another one of the new Melbourne hotels with a pool that opened in May 2022. Located in Southbank, the modern 4-star hotel is situated inside a bold-looking architecture with a geometric glass facade. It features 205 dog-friendly guest rooms and suites, all designed modernly with a white, grey, and wooden palette.
The heated outdoor infinity pool is easily the highlight of the hotel. Chill out at the pool around sunset and enjoy the gorgeous views of the Melbourne City skyline. You will also find different cocktails from the bar just beside. If you want to work out, a 24-hour fitness center with machines and free weights is available on-site. The hotel also features a refined Spanish-inspired restaurant and a casual bar.
Oakwood Premier Melbourne
Oakwood Premier Melbourne is one of the best 5-star apartment-style hotels in Southbank. Opened in October 2021, the modern hotel is situated inside a 40-storey high-rise overlooking the Melbourne skyline. It embraces a quiet luxury theme with heavy use of white, grey, and neutral tones.
The hotel offers 392 accommodations, including guest rooms and one or two-bedroom apartments. You will find a similar understated luxury design with crisp dark wooden furniture. The apartments are also perfect for extended stays, as they come with a full kitchen and a dining area.
The hotel offers a variety of facilities on-site. There is, of course, a 24-hour fitness center with comprehensive equipment. Besides, you will have access to a seating lounge, a working hub with power outlets, and a games room with a billiard table, arcade machines, and a foosball table.
Pan Pacific Melbourne
Pan Pacific Melbourne is one of the classic luxury 5-star hotels in Southbank. Situated at an enviable waterfront position, the hotel boasts an expansive view of the Yarra River and Melbourne CBD. On the inside, you will find a neutral palette that is both cozy and sophisticated.
The hotel offers 396 guest rooms and suites, featuring a similar wooden theme with classy furnishings. They are all equipped with deluxe bedding, floor-to-ceiling windows, a work desk, a TV, and free wifi. They each also have a beautiful view of either the city, Port Philip Bay, or the Yarra River.
Besides, you will also find multiple dining venues inside the hotel. On the ground floor, Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen is a modern Australian restaurant with a refined menu curated from fresh local produce. For more casual options, Café Orr presents a selection of drinks and light meals.
East Melbourne Hotels
Hotel Chadstone Melbourne MGallery
Hotel Chadstone MGallery by Sofitel is easily one of the best-designed 5-star hotels in East Melbourne. Located in Chadstone, you will find the hotel inside stylish contemporary glass architecture. Led by design studio dwp, the lobby strikes you with a glamorous dusty pink and golden palette, complemented by patterned marble floors and grand lighting.
The hotel boasts 250 exquisite guest rooms and suites. They come in either a neutral, dusty pink, or rich blue palette, highlighted by elegant furnishing and velvet and chrome touches. You will also have all your essentials, including premium Sofitel bedding, Appelles toiletries, and a smart TV.
The hotel is best known for its pool experience. Located on level 12, the luxurious heated indoor pool features a distinct curvature design. Feel free to unwind on the sunken loungers and enjoy the uninterrupted city views through the large floor-to-ceiling windows. Besides, you will also find a fitness center, a modern Italian restaurant, and a rooftop bar on-site.
The Como Melbourne – MGallery
The Como Melbourne — MGallery is one of the more discreet 5-star hotels located in East Melbourne. Quietly tucked away in the inner-city suburb of South Yarra, the luxury modern hotel is best known for its immaculate and personalized service.
The 111 guest rooms and suites embrace an elegant design. You will find white, grey, and black hues being used across the interior. They each also feature sophisticated furnishing, plush king-size bedding, a marble bathroom, a work desk, Appelles Apothecary toiletries, a smart TV, and free wifi.
The hotel offers multiple wellness facilities on-site. Located on the rooftop is a tranquil heated swimming pool with ample loungers and a retractable roof. In addition, you will have access to a comprehensive fitness center, a relaxing sauna, and a rooftop sundeck with a barbecue area.
THE CHEN — Art Series
THE CHEN — Art Series is one of the best boutique hotels in East Melbourne. Located in Box Hill, the cool 4-star hotel is named after and inspired by Chinese Australian artist Zhong Chen. The interior embraces a minimalistic design, while the artist’s paintings take the center stage.
You will also find unique artwork in each of the 100 guest rooms. Much like the public spaces, they opt for a rather minimalistic palette with occasional pops of purple. The highlight of the hotel is none other than its gorgeous rooftop pool with loungers and uninterrupted skyline views. If you want to break a sweat, feel free to head to the fully equipped gym on-site.
The Chinese influence can also be found in the hotel’s dining offerings. Golden Lily Chinese Restaurant, located on the first floor, specializes in delicate Yum Cha and authentic Chinese cuisine. From Cantonese to Shanghai and Sichuan dishes, the restaurant has you covered.
Docklands Hotels
Melbourne Marriott Hotel Docklands
Melbourne Marriott Hotel Docklands is one of the best luxury 5-star hotels in the emerging Docklands district. Located near the waterfront position, it is situated inside a unique contemporary “petal-shaped” building designed by DKO Architecture. The communal areas feature a modern monochromatic design with shades of black, white, and dark grey.
The hotel boasts 189 spacious guest rooms and suites. Much like the open spaces, they are designed with a sleek white and dark grey theme, accented by wooden floors and meticulous modern furnishing. They also come with premium bedding, a sitting area, a TV, coffee facilities, and free wifi.
The hotel’s iconic heated infinity rooftop pool with sunken loungers is located on the rooftop, overlooking Port Phillip Bay and the Bolte Bridge. A fully equipped 24-hour gym and a sauna are also located on-site. The gastronomy at the hotel is also exquisite. Our favourite spot includes Archer’s, a modern Australian restaurant that offers classic dishes with a contemporary twist.
St Kilda Hotels
The Prince
The Prince is a boutique hotel in Melbourne’s St Kilda district. Just a stone’s throw away from St Kilda beach, it occupies an ivory Art Deco building from the early 20th century. Recently renovated, the public space presents a white, black, and wooden theme with sleek modern furnishings.
The intimate 4-star hotel offers 39 guest rooms and suites. They all feel serene, tranquil, and cozy. Unlike the public spaces, they are all highlighted with splashes of powder pink and pale green, complemented by soft, elegant furnishing and premium amenities.
Make sure you also check out Prince Dining Room, the hotel’s in-house restaurant that specializes in contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. For more casual options, there is also a bar beside offering a variety of drinks and succulent small bites.
