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Review
This 18-storey, $90 million hotel on the edge of Melbourne’s CBD is the biggest ground-up hotel development in the city for 2026 – so we sent our Video Lead Rebecca Hegedus to check it out. Here’s the lowdown on Mercure Melbourne La Trobe Street.
Light-filled and thoughtfully styled, rooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows and a palette inspired by the Victorian bush: soft greens, blush tones and neutrals. The real show-off is Suite 1603 – a high-rise hideaway with a two-person bathtub perched against a window, primed for gazing at the city skyline with a glass of red in hand. Some suites even open onto private terraces, which feels like a luxury in the CBD.
“My room was super spacious with amazing views of the city,” said Reb.
Foundry, the on-site restaurant and bar on level six, pairs an open kitchen (with a striking marble island centrepiece) with a terrace that looks out over Flagstaff Gardens and the CBD. It’s a great spot for golden hour drinks, and the menu will keep you there for dinner. Reb’s tip: order the fresh fish with chimichurri.
Inspired by Mercure’s “local discovery” ethos, staff are primed with neighbourhood tips to help you make the most of your stay – pointing guests in the direction of little-known distillery tours to regional dining adventures. The vibe is welcoming and warm – Reb even scored a welcome drink on arrival, though we can’t confirm that happens for every guest.
There is. In the basement you’ll find a compact but functional gym that rounds out the essentials if you’re keen to keep moving between laneway explorations.
No pool here – this one’s more about city immersion than resort-style lounging.
There’s no dedicated spa, so you’ll have to head out to explore Melbourne’s excellent bathhouse scene.
You’re on the quieter western edge of the CBD, which means breathing room and surprisingly good access. Southern Cross Station is a short stroll away, Marvel Stadium is within easy walking distance, and Queen Victoria Market is close enough for a morning pastry run (though with a new Lune store just around the corner, you’re definitely more than covered on the croissant front). Another major drawcard is the super close proximity to Flagstaff Gardens – a little pocket of green steps from the city’s buzz.
Address: 492 La Trobe Street, West Melbourne, VIC, 3003
Price per night: From around A$179 per night
Closest transport link: Southern Cross Station is a short walk from the hotel, and the Spencer St/ La Trobe St tram stop is just across the road.
Book now: Over here
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