Where to Stay in Melbourne?

Antoine Murtha

Updated: 26 May 2026 ·

Introduction

Soon the big departure for Melbourne and you still don't know where to stay? If you're wondering about the best neighborhood to choose, then I think this guide will be helpful! Melbourne is a modern metropolis known for being an important financial center. It is the second largest city in Australia, with a diverse population and miles of beaches along the Indian Ocean. Multicultural, Melbourne has a lot of activities to do and great places to discover. But where to stay in Melbourne to make the most of your visit? The answer is in the rest of this article <-️

How to Find Accommodations in Melbourne?

Choosing a neighborhood to stay in Melbourne isn't overly complicated. The city stretches for several kilometers, with many neighborhoods each having their own unique charm. But beware, not all neighborhoods are created equal, and like in Perth, some areas are not intended for mass tourism!

If you want to make the best choice, focus on neighborhoods near the Melbourne city center, where all the popular attractions are concentrated. In other words, it's best to stay in or close to the center, while ensuring you choose an establishment near public transport.

You also need to decide on your budget for accommodation. Depending on your means, would you prefer to stay in a hostel? In a hotel? Or would you like to rent an apartment? It's up to you to define your expectations well because these three options offer very different atmospheres.

My Favorite Places ❤️ to Stay in Melbourne

Don't have time to read the whole article? Here's a selection of my favorite accommodations:

In the heart of the city, you can stay at the Causeway 353 Hotel, a 4-star establishment featuring spacious, bright, and modern rooms, starting from $81 per night.

The Mantra on Jolimont is one of my favorite accommodations! The rooms are well decorated and offer a beautiful view of the city. Excellent value for money, expect to pay $72 per night for a fully equipped studio.

The Zagame's House is a hotel with two restaurants, a fitness center, a bar, and a lounge. The rooms feature tasteful and elegant decor, available from $156 per night.

Where to Stay in Melbourne? In the Business District!

If you're only passing through Melbourne for two or three days, staying in the business district will be an excellent choice. This is the most central area of the metropolis: the downtown. Of course, it's also a sector I highly recommend as it encompasses almost all tourist attractions

Perfectly served by public transport, the area known as the CBD is the central point that allows you to access other parts of Melbourne. With bus and tram lines, no less than 5 train stations, and free access to the City Circle, not to mention taxis, getting around Melbourne is easy

Among the most popular spots in Melbourne, you must visit Victoria Street, where you find the Queen Victoria Market, the city's most iconic food market. You can get a wide range of local products, as it is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere!

If you're coming to Melbourne with children or loved ones, take a bike tour of the city starting from Flinders Station. It's a fun and quite unusual activity! Of course, shops, stores, and other businesses are abundant if you want to take home some souvenirs.

From an accommodation perspective, there are many good options in the downtown area. It's clear that if you have a comfortable budget, you can treat yourself Prices are quite high in this part of the metropolis, and if you have limited means, it will be difficult to find a cheap hotel in Melbourne.

The Good Addresses in the Business District of Melbourne

the victoria hotel
the victoria hotel photo by unsacsurledos.com
the victoria hotel where to stay in melbourne
the victoria hotel where to stay in melbourne photo by unsacsurledos.com

The Victoria Hotel is a modern establishment offering elegant rooms starting from $128 per night with breakfast. Well located in downtown Melbourne, you'll also enjoy two restaurants, private parking, and an indoor pool.

The Causeway 353 Hotel is a 4-star establishment located on Little Collins Street, 300 meters from Bourke Street Mall. You'll stay in spacious, bright, and modern rooms starting from $81 per night. You can also enjoy a gym, a steam room, and a bar.

Fitzroy, for its Bohemian Atmosphere and Trendy Bars

fitzroy melbourne
fitzroy melbourne photo by unsacsurledos.com

Dynamic and lively, the Fitzroy neighborhood is known for being the most bohemian place in Melbourne, a pleasant place to live if that's the atmosphere you're seeking. Fitzroy earns this reputation because it concentrates a lot of collectible shops, art galleries, and bookstores.

This neighborhood is located north of Melbourne's business district. In its typically contemporary ambiance, you'll find plenty of delicious restaurants and trendy bars. Among the sights to see, the Melbourne Museum is a must-visit to learn about the city's history and culture!

Although there's not much more to say about this neighborhood, I must admit that it's generally interesting for its vibrant atmosphere throughout the day and night! For accommodations, Fitzroy offers fewer options compared to other neighborhoods in the city, but there are good places, often more affordable than in the center

Where to Stay in the Fitzroy Neighborhood?

The Tyrian Serviced Apartments features independent accommodations with a fully equipped kitchen and several room options. Starting from $142 per night, you will stay very close to downtown Melbourne and be greeted by helpful and friendly staff.

The Comfort Apartments Royal Gardens have various recreational facilities, including an outdoor pool and a barbecue area. The accommodations are comfortable and spacious, and you will find restaurants and shops nearby. Expect to pay around $84 for a night in this establishment.

The Royal Derby Hotel offers attractive rates, around $53 per night for a comfortable double room with access to a shared bathroom. This hostel features a terrace, a restaurant, and a bar, and is located near shops.

East Melbourne, for a Quiet Stay

east melbourne
east melbourne photo by unsacsurledos.com

The tranquil atmosphere of East Melbourne will satisfy many travelers! If you still don't know where to stay in the state capital of Victoria, this neighborhood may appeal to you

Located about 2 kilometers east of Melbourne's business district, East Melbourne enjoys an excellent location. You can reach the center via public transport, with several tram, metro, and bus lines in continual circulation. Ideally, settle near a station or stop

The East Melbourne neighborhood is distinguished by its typically Victorian architecture, an ambiance that reflects Australia's past under British royalty. Colonnades and red bricks are part of the architectural landscape, housing the Government House and the Parliament of Victoria.

In addition to its very historical character, this is where you can see the Melbourne Cricket Ground, one of the most famous in the world! There's also a beautiful cathedral bordering the Hoddle Grid.

Quiet, residential, pleasant, and convenient, East Melbourne is a neighborhood worth considering if you don't know where to stay in Melbourne! It's one of the places where you can find a few hotels, guest houses, and even vacation rentals

Where to Stay in East Melbourne?

The Mantra on Jolimont is an excellent address! The establishment offers very nice modern and elegant accommodations equipped with a fully functional kitchen. For $72 per night, you will stay near the Melbourne Botanical Gardens in a pleasant and caring environment.

The Quest East Melbourne offers renovated apartments in an Art Deco style, perfectly equipped and comfortable. For about $106 per night, you will also have access to the rooftop garden, offering panoramic views of Melbourne's surroundings, parks, and buildings.

Carlton, a Pleasant Italian Neighborhood with a Village Vibe

loger quartier carlton
loger quartier carlton photo by unsacsurledos.com

Little Italy, that's what we call one of the most pleasant neighborhoods in Melbourne! Indeed, the Carlton neighborhood embodies a sweet way of living and pleasures for perfect vacations. This village-like place concentrates the best restaurants in Melbourne, ranging from trattorias to really affordable pizzerias By the way, Lygon Street is where you'll find the finest dining!

Some highlights of this neighborhood where to stay in Melbourne include the little alleys brimming with shops, stalls, bars, and cafes in a typically Italian atmosphere. You'll also find art cinemas, concerts at the Trades Hall throughout the year, and some bookstores.

Close to downtown, Carlton is a rather tranquil and relaxing area. Accommodations are quite varied, ranging from luxury hotels to vacation rentals or homestays.

Where to Stay in the Carlton Neighborhood in Melbourne?

The Zagame's House features two restaurants, a fitness center, a bar, and a common lounge to relax. The rooms display tasteful and elegant decor, the staff is attentive, and you will stay near the restaurants, all starting from $156 per night in a double room.

The Carlton Lygon Lodge enjoys an ideal location on Lygon Street, known for hosting the best restaurants in Carlton. The rooms are pleasantly decorated and comfortable, available for around $72 per night. Private parking is available if needed.

South Bank, the Artistic District of Melbourne

south bank melbourne
south bank melbourne photo by unsacsurledos.com

Situated by the Yarra River and the Royal Botanical Gardens of Melbourne, South Bank is a vibrant neighborhood that gathers a lot of restaurants, terraces, and street entertainment. Although quite expensive, it's home to many art galleries and shops.

Among the activities to do in this area, I suggest visiting Australia's oldest museum, the National Gallery of Victoria, as well as shows held at the Melbourne Arts Centre. For shopping or enjoying the nightlife, head to Crown Casino, a massive entertainment complex!

There are also some impressive buildings such as the famous Eureka Tower rising to about 300 meters high, as well as iconic places like the Rod Laver Arena where the Australian Open takes place.

Where to Stay in the South Bank Neighborhood of Melbourne?

The Adina Apartment Hotel offers modern, renovated, and comfortable apartments and studios. You will stay at a 4-star establishment, near Eureka Tower and Southbank Promenade. These luxury accommodations are available starting at $89 per night, with access to the gym and heated indoor pool.

The Crown Towers welcomes you to its modern and elegant establishment with friendly and attentive staff. This hotel offers beautiful rooms with careful decor, close to the large Crown Casino complex and its restaurants. Expect to pay starting from $189 per night for a 40 m2 room.

The Clarendon Hotel suits mid-range budgets with pleasant rooms available from $105 per night. Featuring a bar, you will stay near the Victoria Gallery, Southbank Promenade, and the Eureka Tower in Melbourne. This address is perfect for a stay in Melbourne with family or friends!

What is the Best Season to Visit Melbourne?

Spring and autumn are the two ideal seasons to visit Melbourne Keep in mind that the seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere, so spring and autumn do not occur at the same time as in Europe. In spring, from September to November, temperatures are very pleasant, around 23 degrees with sunny days and an idyllic atmosphere. This is the best time to enjoy Melbourne's parks, visit nature reserves, and explore the metropolis on foot.

During autumn, from March to May, you'll experience the beginnings of summer heat but with a bit more humidity. However, sunny days and cooler evenings will provide good compromises for a pleasant vacation. To enjoy the warmth, travel early in March.

How to Get to Melbourne?

Don't know how to get to Melbourne from the United States? It's quite simple; flying is the fastest and most convenient mode of transport to get to Australia. From a city like New York, you will find plenty of available flights, including a layover, operated by Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, and American Airlines ✈️

Melbourne Airport is located about 23 kilometers from downtown, approximately a 25-minute drive. To get to the center, you can take the bus, train, a taxi, or opt for an airport shuttle.

That's all for this article, I hope you now know where to stay in Melbourne If you plan to go on a road trip in Australia and don't know where to stay in Sydney, I also have an article on that topic