When visiting Melbourne, the best areas to stay are in the central business district or nearby neighborhoods like Southbank, Docklands, and Carlton, which offer a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top areas, consider the following options:
Southbank (Melbourne)
Best For: Luxury travelers and families
Vibe: Southbank is a vibrant and cosmopolitan area with a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, including the famous Crown Casino. The area is also close to the Yarra River and offers stunning views of the city.
Price Range: $150-300/night
Pros: Close proximity to the city center, a range of dining and entertainment options, and stunning views of the city.
Cons: Can be quite crowded and noisy, especially at night.
Carlton (Melbourne)
Best For: Backpackers and students
Vibe: Carlton is a lively and eclectic neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings, including the famous Lygon Street, which is known for its Italian restaurants and cafes. The area is also home to the University of Melbourne, making it a popular spot for students.
Price Range: $80-200/night
Pros: Affordable accommodation options, a range of dining and entertainment options, and close proximity to the university.
Cons: Can be quite noisy, especially at night, and parking can be a challenge.
Docklands (Melbourne)
Best For: Business travelers and families
Vibe: Docklands is a modern and sleek area with a range of high-rise buildings, including apartments, offices, and hotels. The area is also home to the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and the Docklands Sunday Market.
Price Range: $120-250/night
Pros: Close proximity to the city center, a range of dining and entertainment options, and stunning views of the city.
Cons: Can be quite windy and exposed, especially in the winter months.
CBD (Melbourne)
Best For: Business travelers and luxury travelers
Vibe: The CBD is the heart of Melbourne's business and financial district, with a range of high-rise buildings, including offices, hotels, and apartments. The area is also home to the famous Bourke Street Mall and the Melbourne Town Hall.
Price Range: $150-350/night
Pros: Close proximity to the city's main attractions, a range of dining and entertainment options, and stunning views of the city.
Cons: Can be quite crowded and noisy, especially during peak hours.
St Kilda (Melbourne)
Best For: Families and beachgoers
Vibe: St Kilda is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including the famous St Kilda Beach and the Luna Park amusement park. The area is also home to a range of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and guesthouses.
Price Range: $100-250/night
Pros: Close proximity to the beach, a range of dining and entertainment options, and stunning views of the city.
Cons: Can be quite crowded and noisy, especially during peak season.
Fitzroy (Melbourne)
Best For: Backpackers and alternative travelers
Vibe: Fitzroy is a lively and eclectic neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings, including the famous Brunswick Street, which is known for its alternative shops and cafes. The area is also home to a range of accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses, and apartments.
Price Range: $60-180/night
Pros: Affordable accommodation options, a range of dining and entertainment options, and close proximity to the city center.
Cons: Can be quite noisy, especially at night, and parking can be a challenge.
Richmond (Melbourne)
Best For: Families and sports fans
Vibe: Richmond is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Richmond Football Club. The area is also home to a range of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and guesthouses.
Price Range: $80-220/night
Pros: Close proximity to the city center, a range of dining and entertainment options, and stunning views of the city.
Cons: Can be quite crowded and noisy, especially during sports events.
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $20-50 | Budget/Social | Shared rooms and communal facilities, great for meeting other travelers |
| Guesthouses | $60-120 | Mid-range/Local | Family-run establishments with a homey atmosphere, often with shared facilities |
| Hotels | $100-250 | Comfort/Business | Range of options from budget to luxury, often with amenities like pools and gyms |
| Boutique Hotels | $150-300 | Experience | Unique and stylish hotels with a focus on design and service |
| Resorts | $200-400 | Relaxation | Luxurious properties with a range of amenities, often located outside the city center |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $80-200 | Long stays/Families | Self-contained apartments with kitchen and laundry facilities, often more affordable than hotels |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance, especially during peak season (December to February) to ensure availability and get the best rates.
- Use online booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb to compare prices and find deals.
- Consider staying in a neighborhood outside the city center, like St Kilda or Richmond, for more affordable options.
- Negotiate the price, especially if you're booking directly with a hotel or guesthouse.
- Look for package deals that include accommodation, breakfast, and other amenities to save money.
- Be aware of any additional fees, like parking or Wi-Fi charges, and factor them into your budget.
- Read reviews and check the location of your accommodation before booking to ensure it meets your needs.
Safety & Location Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like train stations and tourist hotspots.
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps, and always check the driver's ID before getting in.
- Avoid areas with high crime rates, like some parts of the CBD and outer suburbs.
- Stay close to public transportation, like tram and train lines, to make it easy to get around the city.
- Consider staying in a neighborhood with a high police presence, like the CBD or Southbank, for added safety.