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Planning a trip to Melbourne and not sure where to stay? We’ve got you covered.
Melbourne is a city of contrasts, with neighborhoods that each offer a different vibe, from the creative energy of Fitzroy to the breezy coastal charm of St Kilda and the skyscraper-filled CBD. It’s one of those cities where location really matters! Melbourne is sprawling and diverse, so it’s surprisingly easy to end up somewhere that feels too far from the action or just doesn’t suit your style.
For that reason, we’ve written this guide to help you choose the best area to stay in, whether you’re after culture, nightlife, beaches, or convenience. Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Melbourne is the CBD. It’s central, walkable, and packed with top sights!
Mantra on Russell is our go-to hotel here! With apartment-style rooms, a pool, and a perfect location near Chinatown, it’s ideal for short and longer stays.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Where To Stay In Melbourne Map
- Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Melbourne
- Important Tip: Book Now or Cry Later
- Where to Stay in Melbourne
- Top Activities to do in Melbourne
- Thanks for reading!
- Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in Australia
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Where To Stay In Melbourne Map
Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Melbourne
Melbourne is a vibrant, sprawling city with tons of diverse neighborhoods, which can make choosing where to stay a bit overwhelming. But after many visits and stays everywhere from boho Fitzroy to beachy St Kilda, we know just how much your location can shape your experience.
While Melbourne has an excellent tram network and is fairly easy to navigate, it’s still a big city. Booking a stay in the wrong area can mean long travel times or a vibe that just doesn’t fit your trip. The good news is that in a city this varied, there’s certainly an ideal neighborhood for you, so stick with us and we’ll help you find it.
Here’s a quick overview of our favorite areas:
- Melbourne CBD – This skyscraper-filled district is the city’s commercial and cultural heart, and it’s home to major sights like Federation Square, laneway cafés, and Queen Victoria Market. Mantra on Russell is a comfortable mid-range hotel that puts you close to the action.
- Fitzroy – Melbourne’s artsy, bohemian soul, known for street art, vintage shops, and a buzzing nightlife. Tyrian Serviced Apartments Fitzroy offers modern comfort right in the middle of this creative district.
- Southbank – A sleek riverside area just across from the CBD, home to the Melbourne Skydeck, Crown Casino, and NGV. Quest Southbank is a solid choice with easy access to the riverside promenade and city highlights.
- St Kilda – A laid-back beachside neighborhood with palm trees, great brunch spots, and sunset views. Quest St Kilda Bayside offers good value in a prime location near the beach and Luna Park.
- Carlton – This area is leafy and cultured, with strong Italian heritage and plenty of green spaces. Best Western Plus Travel Inn is a great base close to Lygon Street and the Melbourne Museum.
- South Yarra – A polished, fashion-forward suburb with upscale boutiques, cafés, and leafy streets. District South Yarra is a stylish and affordable hotel near Chapel Street shopping.
- Richmond – A lively area known for sports, live music, and multicultural eats, especially along Victoria Street. The Motley Hotel Richmond blends comfort and location in one of Melbourne’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
Important Tip: Book Now or Cry Later
Multiple Melbourne trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Melbourne accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Melbourne
Melbourne CBD
Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) is the city’s buzzing, high-rise core. It’s a fast-paced area with a ton to do, from checking out historic landmarks to spending time in cultural institutions and wandering among the towering skyscrapers.
The CBD is home to some of Melbourne’s most iconic sights, including Federation Square, the State Library, and the Queen Victoria Market. It’s also close to many of Melbourne’s other hotspots, such as the Yarra River, Chinatown, and Melbourne’s famous laneways, where you’ll find hidden bars, the street art-covered Hosier Lane, and cozy cafés. If you want to see all of these highlights in just one day, we’ve put together this handy Melbourne CBD itinerary to help you do exactly that.
It’s also super easy to get around the CBD, and it’s a breeze to access the rest of the city from here. This area is extremely well-connected by trams and trains, including the free City Circle tram that loops around major sights. For this reason, we think it’s the ideal choice for first-time visitors and anyone who is short on time. If it’s your first trip, be sure to check out our guide to the best things to do in Melbourne for first-time visitors here.
The only downside is that the CBD can feel a bit hectic and businesslike during the week, and much quieter after hours. But if convenience and proximity to top attractions matter the most to you, then this is the place to be!
Pros
- Central and walkable, with excellent public transport
- Close to top sights, shops, and restaurants
Cons
- Can feel busy and crowded, especially on weekdays
- Lacks the charm and local feel of Melbourne’s outer neighborhoods
The Westin Melbourne – $$$
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay right in the heart of the city, The Westin Melbourne is hard to beat. It’s located just off Collins Street, steps from Federation Square, the Regent Theatre, and Flinders Street Station, so it’s ideal if you want to be in the middle of everything!
The hotel’s interiors are sleek and elegant, with plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and spacious rooms. There’s also a strong wellness focus here, with a fitness studio, spa services, and a large lap pool for guests to enjoy.
It’s the kind of place where you can escape the city buzz the moment you step inside, while still having the best of Melbourne right on your doorstep. Rooms here typically cost between $350 and $950 AUD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Mantra on Russell – $$
Mantra on Russell offers reliable comfort and a fantastic location just a short walk from Chinatown, Bourke Street Mall, and the State Library. Rooms are apartment-style, with kitchenettes and laundry facilities, so it’s also a smart choice for longer stays.
The indoor pool, sauna, and gym are nice extras, and there’s an on-site restaurant if you’re not in the mood to head out. While the décor is more functional than flashy, we think that this place offers great value for money, given its central location.
You’ll be within walking distance of some of the city’s best food, shopping, and cultural spots! Rooms here usually cost between $185 and $700 AUD, ranging from studios to two-bedroom apartments.
Check availability and book your stay here!
The Victoria Hotel – $
The Victoria Hotel is one of the best budget-friendly options in the CBD. It boasts a prime location just behind the Town Hall and is less than five minutes from Federation Square, which makes it ideal for sightseeing on foot.
While the rooms are simple and no-frills, they’re clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. There’s also a small pool, gym, and even a rooftop terrace. It’s a historic hotel with a bit of old-school charm, and although it doesn’t offer luxury, it delivers fantastic value for the price.
Perfect for budget travelers or anyone who just wants a reliable, well-located place to crash after a busy day exploring the city. Stays here cost between $125 and $250 AUD per night, depending on the dates and room category you choose.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Related Read: Want to dive deeper into the city’s history and hidden corners? Check out our honest review of Melbourne’s best walking tour here.
Fitzroy
We love Fitzroy because it’s the creative heart of Melbourne. It’s a colorful, bohemian neighborhood that’s packed with personality. If you’re into street art, indie shops, secondhand book stores, and hidden bars, this is your spot!
Fitzroy has long been a haven for artists, musicians, and anyone who prefers the alternative to the mainstream. The vibe is laid-back but lively, with a mix of historic terrace houses, cool cafés, and buzzing nightlife.
The area centers around Brunswick Street, a vibrant strip lined with vintage stores, record shops, and lots of delicious global eats. I always get excited to come and check out the food scene around here—we discover something new every time!
Fitzroy also borders the lovely Fitzroy Gardens and is just a short tram ride (or 25-minute walk) from the CBD. It’s not the place for high-rises or big-name attractions, but it’s all about atmosphere, local flavor, and finding those quirky spots you won’t see in guidebooks.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants a more offbeat, local experience of Melbourne. Yet at the same time, it’s also central and well-connected enough to make things easy for first-timers. We can’t get enough of this area!
Pros
- Great food, bars, and indie shops around every corner
- Packed with character and local flavor
Cons
- Not within walking distance of major sights like Federation Square
- Can be noisy and a bit gritty in places
The StandardX – $$$
The StandardX is one of Fitzroy’s coolest new boutique hotels, and that’s saying something! It’s effortlessly stylish and full of character with a bold design, exposed concrete, vintage accents, and a playful nod to Fitzroy’s edgy past.
The rooms are compact but cleverly designed, with huge windows and great showers. Some even have big standalone bathtubs! Downstairs, you’ll find a slick café and restaurant, plus a vibey bar that draws in locals as well as guests. The location is right off Fitzroy’s iconic Smith Street, so you’re steps from some of the city’s best food, bars, and galleries.
It’s a great pick for anyone who wants something more interesting than a chain hotel. Rooms here start at $200 AUD per night while suites range up to $600 AUD.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Tyrian Serviced Apartments Fitzroy – $$
Tyrian Serviced Apartments Fitzroy is a fantastic option if you want the freedom of an apartment stay without compromising on style or comfort. The suites here are spacious and modern, with full kitchens, in-room laundry, and sleek open-plan living areas.
It’s located right on Johnston Street, one of Fitzroy’s liveliest strips, and just minutes from Brunswick Street’s cafés and bars. There’s also a rooftop terrace with a spa and BBQ area, plus secure parking and a small gym. Whether you’re in town for a few nights or a couple of weeks, this place offers a great blend of independence and convenience.
Expect to pay around $280 AUD per night for a one-bed apartment here and around $415 AUD for a two-bed.
Book this modern stay in Fitzroy here!
Melbourne Metropole Central Official – $
Melbourne Metropole Central Official is a simple, budget-friendly option in the heart of Fitzroy. It’s not flashy, but the location is fantastic. It’s right near the top end of Brunswick Street, within walking distance of cafés, bars, and the city’s best vintage shopping.
The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the bathrooms offer spacious tubs and showers. There’s also a small outdoor pool and secure on-site parking, which is a nice bonus if you’re hiring a car. This is a solid pick if you’re watching your budget but still want to soak up Fitzroy’s creative energy and walk everywhere.
Rooms here range between $160 AUD per night for a studio and $550 AUD per night for a 3-bedroom apartment that can sleep up to six people.
Browse room options and secure your stay here!
Related Read: One of the best things to do in Melbourne is explore the Great Ocean Road. To help you choose the best tour, we’ve outlined our 5 favorite ones here!
Southbank
Southbank is sleek, modern, and right on the river. We think it’s perfect if you want to be close to the action without being in the hustle of the CBD! This area is best known for its high-rise hotels, luxury apartments, and its long riverside promenade that’s lined with restaurants, bars, and galleries.
It also means you can check out Melbourne’s legendary Skydeck for amazing views of the city. Before you go, have a quick read of our things to know before visiting the Melbourne Skydeck guide for tips to make the most of your visit.
Southbank is just across the Yarra River from Flinders Street Station, so it’s an easy walk to the city’s main attractions, but it has a distinct vibe of its own. It’s Melbourne’s arts and culture hub.
Southbank is home to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), the Arts Centre, the Melbourne Recital Centre, and Hamer Hall. Plus, Crown Casino and its sprawling entertainment complex sit at the heart of the neighborhood, offering shopping, fine dining, cinemas, and even a bowling alley!
While Southbank doesn’t have the quirky charm of neighborhoods like Fitzroy or Carlton, we always have fun here. It’s super convenient, well-connected, and has gorgeous city and river views. This area suits travelers who want to be near top sights with a touch of polish, especially couples and business travelers looking for comfort and convenience.
Pros
- Walking distance to the CBD and cultural attractions
- Beautiful river views and a wide range of dining options
Cons
- Feels modern and commercial rather than local or quirky
- Can get crowded around the Crown and the promenade
Crown Towers Melbourne – $$$
If you’re after top-tier luxury, Crown Towers Melbourne delivers it in spades. It’s part of the massive Crown Casino complex, and it’s all about elegance and indulgence. The rooms are plush and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping city or river views.
They boast marble bathrooms, high-end linens, and floor-to-ceiling windows. On-site, you’ve got access to a world-class spa, indoor pool, designer boutiques, and some of Melbourne’s best restaurants, including Nobu and Dinner by Heston.
It’s ideal for a splurge-worthy stay, especially if you love the convenience of having dining and entertainment right downstairs. Rooms and suites here range between $360 and $660 AUD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Quest Southbank – $$
Quest Southbank is a practical and well-located option with spacious apartment-style rooms. We think it’s a great choice for families and groups, especially since each apartment has a full kitchen and separate living space. It definitely feels more like a home than a hotel room!
The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the NGV, the Arts Centre, and the Southbank promenade, so you’re close to all the action without being right in the thick of it. There’s no restaurant on-site, but you’ve got plenty of options nearby, and in-room dining is easy when you’ve got your own kitchen!
Rooms here start from $175 AUD per night for a one-bedroom apartment to $750 AUD per night for a three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment.
See all the options and secure your stay here!
Ink Hotel Melbourne Southbank- $
Ink Hotel Melbourne Southbank is a fun, affordable boutique stay in a great location. The vibe is bold and youthful, with splashes of neon, industrial design, and a cheeky sense of humor woven into the branding.
The rooms are on the compact side, but they’re smartly laid out, so it doesn’t really matter, and the comfy beds and blackout curtains pretty much guarantee a good night’s sleep! There’s a lively café and bar downstairs that doubles as a coworking space, and you’re within a short walk of the Yarra River, Federation Square, and public transport.
It’s a great base for budget-conscious travelers who want flair and convenience without a hefty price tag. Rooms here cost between $150 and $285 AUD per night, depending on the dates and room category you choose.
Check availability for your travel dates and secure this stay here!
Related Read: Thinking about seeing Melbourne from the water? We’ve shared our take on the city’s river cruises and which one stood out most.
St Kilda
St Kilda is Melbourne’s breezy, beachside playground! It’s where we would settle down if we moved to Melbourne—and believe me, when we’re exploring this neighborhood, I often dream about it!
St Kilda has a laid-back, coastal vibe with trendy cafés, a wide sandy beach, a lively esplanade, and the iconic Luna Park. Don’t miss the little penguins at the end of the pier—it’s one of the area’s most charming surprises!
St Kilda is a hub for live music, and it has a strong backpacker culture. When we’re not at the beach, we love spending time in the lively bars, catching a gig at the Palais Theatre, or browsing the vintage shops and weekend markets along Acland and Fitzroy Streets.
This is a neighborhood with a bit of everything: a palm-lined promenade for sunset strolls, lively pubs and cafés along Acland Street, and even a colony of little penguins you can spot at the end of St Kilda Pier.
While St Kilda isn’t as central as some other areas, it’s well connected by tram and has a more relaxed, easygoing pace. It’s ideal for beach lovers, families, and anyone who wants to stay in a vibrant yet scenic spot that still gives you easy access to the city.
Pros
- Beachside location with stunning sunset views
- Great for nightlife, live music, and local markets
Cons
- Not as central as other neighborhoods
- Fewer hotel luxury options
Quest St Kilda Bayside – $$
Quest St Kilda Bayside is a smart, serviced aparthotel just a few blocks away from the beach. It’s also just a short walk from Acland Street’s shops and restaurants, and while it doesn’t have the flash of a luxury hotel, it’s sleek, modern, and super comfy.
Rooms are spacious and well-equipped with kitchens and laundry facilities, so it’s also a great choice for longer stays or families who like having a bit more independence. There’s a small outdoor pool, and there are tram stops close by, so you really do have everything you need here!
Rooms here range between $145 and $375 AUD per night, depending on the dates and category you choose.
Check availability and book your stay here!
The Prince – $$
The Prince is a boutique hotel with plenty of personality and a modern, stylish vibe. The rooms are sleek and minimal, with luxe bedding and an earthy, calming color palette. If you’re looking for a chic stay that won’t break the bank, this property is ideal!
There’s also a fantastic spa and an award-winning restaurant downstairs, plus you’re just minutes from the beach and all of St Kilda’s best bars and cafés. If you want somewhere that feels a little bit special but not over-the-top, we think that The Prince is a fantastic pick. It’s a real gem of a hotel!
Rooms here cost between $185 and $465 AUD per night, with suites and quadruple rooms available.
See room options and book your stay at The Prince here!
Cosmopolitan Hotel and Apartments – $
For travelers on a budget, we think that Cosmopolitan Hotel and Apartments offers unbeatable value in the heart of St Kilda! It’s just steps from Luna Park, Acland Street, and the tram, so it’s a super convenient base for beach days or nights out.
Meanwhile, the rooms are clean and contemporary. They range from compact studios to apartments with kitchenettes, and the decor is basic, but everything is new and functional.
We love this place because it puts you close to the action without breaking the bank. It may not be super luxe, but it delivers exactly what you need for a fun, affordable stay by the sea. Rooms here cost between $145 and $310 AUD per night, depending on your dates and room category.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Related Read: If you have the time, we highly recommend visiting Phillip Island on a day trip from Melbourne. This beautiful island is full of incredible experiences, including the Penguin Parade (yes, you read that right!).
Carlton
Carlton is a leafy and elegant neighborhood just north of Melbourne’s CBD. It’s well-connected to the center by tram, and you can even walk between the two areas in about 20 minutes, so it’s a central and convenient base, but it offers a slower pace of life than the buzzing business district.
The main reason we love spending time in Carlton is that the area has a strong Italian heritage. Daniel is Italian, so we often come here to enjoy all of the delicious and authentic food on offer! Lygon Street is the heart of Melbourne’s Little Italy, and this area in particular is packed with pasta joints, pizzerias, and espresso bars. Oh, and tons of gelato, so if you have a sweet tooth, then you’ll be well catered for around here.
Carlton is also home to the University of Melbourne, so it has a youthful feel. You’ll find arthouse cinemas, the Melbourne Museum, and the Royal Exhibition Building around here, so there’s a creative and academic vibe.
This area is best suited to travelers who want a slightly quieter stay with a local, cultural feel. If nightlife and action are your top priorities, though, you may want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Leafy, walkable streets with great cafés and restaurants
- Close to major museums and university culture
Cons
- Quieter at night, especially on weekdays
- Limited large hotel options compared to the CBD
Zagame’s House – $$$
Zagame’s House is a boutique design hotel with lots of personality. It’s sleek and stylish with plush furniture and a navy and grey color scheme that feels sophisticated, but never stuffy. Everything here feels perfectly curated, from the local Aussie brands that appear in the minibars to the super soft bathrobes.
The hotel also has a great on-site wine bar and café, and you’re just steps from Lygon Street’s best Italian restaurants. The service is friendly but laid-back, and there’s a 24-hour gym for guests who want to stay active. Rooms here cost between $295 and $870 AUD per night.
Reserve your stylish stay at Zagme’s House here!
Best Western Plus Travel Inn – $$
Best Western Plus Travel Inn is a solid mid-range choice right in the heart of Carlton. It’s not flashy, but the rooms are clean, comfortable, and surprisingly spacious, with updated bathrooms and blackout curtains for a restful night’s sleep.
There’s also a small outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant, so you’ve got everything you need for an enjoyable stay. You’re just one block from Lygon Street, and the museum and Carlton Gardens are also a short walk away.
All in all, I think that this Best Western is a dependable base for those who want a great location and a quiet stay without spending a fortune. Rooms here typically cost between $165 and $275 AUD per night.
Secure your room at Best Western Plus Travel Inn here!
Essence Hotel Carlton – $
Essence Hotel Carlton is a great budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on location. It’s just across the road from the Melbourne Museum and a few minutes from Lygon Street, so you’re close to both culture and carbs. What’s not to love?
The rooms are compact but modern, with everything you need for a comfortable stay: good beds, clean bathrooms, and air conditioning. It’s an ideal pick for anyone wanting to stay central without paying CBD prices. Rooms here cost between $140 and $170 AUD per night.
Check availability and book this budget-friendly Melbourne stay here!
South Yarra
South Yarra is one of Melbourne’s most fashionable and affluent neighborhoods. If your idea of a great time is shopping in upscale boutiques and enjoying brunch in top-notch cafes, then South Yarra is basically paradise.
Chapel Street is South Yarra’s main drag, and it’s lined with designer stores, trendy restaurants, and buzzing nightlife spots, including some amazing bars where you can enjoy Australia’s finest vino. Meanwhile, the Royal Botanic Gardens—aka one of the city’s prettiest green spaces—is just a short walk away.
We love spending slow mornings here, coffee in hand, wandering down leafy side streets filled with sleek boutiques and artful window displays. It’s the kind of place where every corner feels curated, from perfectly plated avo toast to vintage shops that double as design studios. The mix of elegance and ease makes it easy to linger.
While South Yarra isn’t in the immediate heart of the CBD, the train will get you into the city in under 10 minutes, and trams run regularly too. It’s more polished than Fitzroy and more relaxed than the CBD, with plenty of cafés, gyms, and boutiques catering to a stylish crowd. That said, it’s not the cheapest, and it’s more chic than cultural, as gentrification has watered down some of the area’s local flavor.
Pros
- Great shopping, brunch spots, and nightlife
- Easy access to the CBD and Botanic Gardens
Cons
- Can be pricey, especially around Chapel Street
The Como Melbourne – $$$
The Como Melbourne is a chic and spacious five-star hotel in the heart of South Yarra. It’s known for its airy suites, many of which come with deep soaking tubs, kitchenettes, and loads of natural light. The vibe here is classic and refined, so it really offers a calm retreat after a busy day out.
We love the rooftop pool and terrace here, and South Yarra Station is just steps away, as are Chapel Street’s top shops and restaurants. There’s also a small gym and a full breakfast spread available each morning. If you’re after space, service, and a prime location, The Como is very hard to beat!
Accommodations here range from king rooms to penthouses, and in terms of price, they go for between $275 and $1,025 AUD per night.
Browse room options and reserve your stay here!
District South Yarra – $$
District South Yarra offers stylish serviced apartments that are ideal for longer stays or travelers who want a bit more independence. Each unit comes with a full kitchen, a washer/dryer, and a separate living space. We think it’s ideal for families and digital nomads, but really, it will suit anyone who likes to self-cater!
Plus, these apartments are tucked just behind Chapel Street, where all of the best cafés and stores are. There are several public transport options close by, and while there’s no on-site restaurant or pool, the extra space and convenience more than make up for it in my opinion.
Options here range from one- to three-bedroom apartments, and prices range between $215 and $400 AUD per night.
Don’t miss out—secure your stay at District South Yarra here!
Ovolo South Yarra – $
Ovolo South Yarra might be a budget pick in price, but it feels anything but basic. This funky, retro-inspired hotel has a fun, maximalist design with bold colors, patterned wallpaper, and quirky touches throughout. It has a youthful, playful energy, and it feels really friendly and welcoming.
Plus, you’re only a short walk from the action on Chapel Street. As far as we’re concerned, this is one of the best-value boutique hotels in Melbourne, and it’s certainly a refreshing alternative to more traditional stays.
Rooms here cost between $250 and $550 AUD per night, which is very reasonable by South Yarra’s standards. You won’t find better value for money around here!
Book your stay at Ovolo South Yarra before rooms fill up!
Related Read: Looking for unforgettable experiences while you’re here? Don’t miss our guide to the 10 best things to do in Melbourne here, packed with tours and activities that showcase the best of the region.
Richmond
Richmond is a dynamic and down-to-earth neighborhood, and we love it because it has a little something for everyone! It’s a great base for sports fans, foodies, and anyone who wants to stay close to the action without having to deal with the crowds of the CBD.
The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and AAMI Park are both a short walk away from Richmond, so it’s ideal if you’re in town to catch a game or a concert. We actually stayed here when we went to see Taylor Swift!
Richmond is also known for its multicultural food scene. Vietnamese restaurants line Victoria Street, so we love coming here to chow down on banh mis and sweet iced coffee! Meanwhile, vibey Bridge Road offers a mix of casual eats, cafés, and great outlet shopping.
The streets here feel lived-in and local, with a mix of terrace houses, modern apartments, and low-key pubs. It’s well-connected by tram and train, too, so getting into the city or exploring nearby suburbs is easy.
This isn’t Melbourne at its most polished, but that’s all part of Richmond’s charm. It has grit, character, and a strong local feel. If you want a neighborhood with real Melbourne flavor, great food, and easy access to sports and nightlife, Richmond is a smart choice!
Pros
- Great for sports fans and concert-goers
- Excellent Vietnamese food and a strong local pub scene
Cons
- Lots of traffic and limited parking
- Feels grittier than some other areas, especially at night
The Motley Hotel Richmond – $$
The Motley Hotel is a bold and stylish boutique stay that adds a splash of flair to Richmond’s gritty charm. Inside, you’ll find plush interiors with rich textures, jewel tones, and playful artwork. It delivers a dose of opulence without going totally over the top!
There’s also a rooftop bar that offers city views and a buzzy spot for a cocktail before heading out. Location-wise, you’re within walking distance of Bridge Road shops, local eateries, and the MCG. We really can’t fault this jazzy hotel! Rooms here cost between $210 and $350 AUD per night.
Check availability and book this stylish boutique stay here!
Lanbruk Richmond Hill – $$
Lanbruk Richmond Hill offers apartment-style accommodation that strikes a nice balance between comfort and convenience. The studios and one-bedroom suites come with kitchenettes, making it a great choice for anyone who prefers self-catering.
It can certainly save you a dollar or two in an expensive city like Melbourne! We love the terrace here, and each apartment or studio has a private balcony with nice city views. In terms of decor, these units are very modern with a clean, fresh vibe.
Plus, it’s located in a quieter pocket of Richmond, so you can enjoy a relaxed stay, but you’ll still be within easy reach of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Swan Street, and the MCG. Studios here start at $175 AUD per night, while two-bedroom apartments average around $390 AUD per night.
Book your stay at Lanbruk Richmond Hill here!
Adara Hotel Richmond – $
Adara Hotel Richmond is a practical and affordable option with a great location right near Bridge Road. It’s an apartment-style hotel, so even the studios come with kitchenettes, and the one- and two-bedroom units offer more space than you’d typically expect at this price point. In short, this place offers great value for money!
The decor is simple, but it’s clean and comfortable. This place is a good fit for travelers who care more about function than flash. It’s close to public transport, shops, and cafés, and it’s an easy tram ride into the CBD. If you’re after a no-frills stay with great value, Adara gets the job done.
Studio apartments here cost around $170 AUD per night, while one-bedroom units cost up to $329 AUD per night, depending on dates.
Check availability and reserve your room here!
Related Read: Still planning out your days? Browse through our 3-Day Melbourne itinerary here for a day-by-day guide that mixes iconic sights, local gems, and easy day trips.
Top Activities to do in Melbourne
With your Melbourne stay locked in, it’s time to explore everything this vibrant city and its surrounds have to offer—and the choices go far beyond coffee shops and laneways. From sunrise balloon rides to gourmet wine country escapes, we found incredible ways to connect with the region’s wild beauty, food culture, and iconic wildlife.
Here are a few of our favorite experiences that made our Melbourne trip unforgettable. Or, for even more inspiration, check out our guide to the tours in Melbourne that made us fall in love with the city here.
- Soar over the Yarra Valley at sunrise – Floating silently above rolling vineyards and morning mist as the sun rose over the Dandenong Ranges was pure magic. This scenic hot air balloon ride came with stunning views, smooth takeoff, and a fun, informative pilot. Spotting kangaroos from the sky and toasting with a drink after landing made it an unforgettable start to the day.
- Hike into the heart of the Grampians – This small-group eco tour took us deep into Victoria’s rugged mountain range. From waterfalls to wildflowers and panoramic lookouts, every stop was a standout. Our guide was super knowledgeable and passionate about the region’s Indigenous stories, making the whole day feel meaningful and immersive.
- Eat and sip your way through the Yarra Valley – Between the family-run wineries, local cheese tastings, and a gourmet lunch with vineyard views, this authentic tasting tour was indulgent in the best way. We discovered varietals we’d never tried, and the relaxed pace gave us time to actually enjoy every stop. Come hungry!
- See the penguins of Phillip Island – Ending the day with little penguins waddling ashore at dusk was one of the most heartwarming things we’ve ever witnessed. But this Phillip Island tour was more than just penguins—we visited a wildlife park, explored coastal cliffs, and learned all about local conservation efforts. A must for animal lovers!
- Dine as Melbourne glides by – This dinner cruise was such a fun, unexpected way to wrap up our time in the city. We drifted along the Yarra River under the city lights, sipping wine and enjoying a full four-course meal. The food was delicious, the service spot-on, and the skyline views? So good. For more on what the night was really like, check out our Spirit of Melbourne dinner cruise review here.
Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in Australia
With many must-see destinations in Australia outside city limits, one of the best ways to get around is driving yourself!
Australia is a huge country and traveling between cities or getting to some of the most scenic spots requires driving. While public transit is sometimes an option, it often adds a lot of time. Plus, we love the freedom to stop wherever we want and not have to stick to a set schedule.
You have three options: a car, a campervan, or a motorhome. Here’s what you need to know about each and where to get them:
- Car – A rental car is the most affordable option – especially if you choose a smaller vehicle. It gets you to all of the best destinations with ease. The only downside to a car is that you will need to stay in hotels along the way (no camping). The easiest place to rent a car in Australia is on DiscoverCars.com where you can compare cars, companies, prices, features, and more very easily.
- Campervan – A Campervan is a large van with a bed and a small kitchen in the back. It’s what many budget travelers use to get around Australia since it allows you to camp comfortably and for free (most) nights. Campervans are best for couples or solo travelers who are happy to live in a small space. You should also love the outdoors and camping…and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime! My favorite campervan rental company is JUCY because they have a huge selection of campervans to choose from, plus multiple pick-up/drop-off locations. You can browse JUCY’s campervan selection online here.
- Motorhome – A motorhome is larger and more comfortable than a campervan. Many motorhomes will comfortably sleep 6 or more people – perfect for a family visiting Australia. Motorhomes are the most expensive option, but with one you won’t ever need to stay in a hotel and you’ll save money that way. My top choice for a motorhome company is Star RV because they have beautiful motorhomes at affordable prices. You can check prices and availability for Star RV motorhomes online here. For more detailed info, read my complete guide to renting a motorhome in Australia!
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT CODE: We’ve managed to snag a discount code for 5% off for our readers if you book your campervan or motorhome through JUCY or Star RV! Simply click here to select your JUCY campervan, or click here to select your Star RV motorhome, and then use the code DTRAVEL25 at checkout to get 5% off – it’s that easy!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
After a day spent café-hopping in Fitzroy, strolling the St Kilda promenade, or museum-hopping from Southbank to Carlton, having a place to come back to that fits your trip makes all the difference. Whether you’re soaking up the skyline views from Southbank or crashing out in a quiet Richmond apartment after a show, where you stay shapes how you experience Melbourne.
We hope this guide helps you find a neighborhood that feels just right—whether you’re after buzzy city energy, laid-back beach vibes, or something in between. Still piecing together your plans? Don’t miss our other Australia guides here for even more travel inspiration. Or check out some of our most popular blogs below!
25 Free and Cheap Things to do in Melbourne, Australia