The 16 best hotels in Melbourne from pocket saving gems to luxury stays

High above Melbourne’s streets, The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne delivers a hotel experience defined by dramatic views and polished luxury. Arriving on the 80th floor lobby, guests are met with sweeping city panoramas framed by vast floor-to-ceiling windows – a spectacle that continues throughout the stay. The hotel, opened in March 2023, rises 80 storeys and houses 257 thoughtfully designed rooms, each blending deep brown and cream interiors with golden touches. Automatic blinds reveal ever-changing outlooks over Port Phillip Bay, while expansive bathrooms feature sliding panels so the scenery can be admired even from the bathtub. Details like plush robes, walk-in wardrobes and powder rooms elevate comfort.

Dining centres on Atria, a modern Australian restaurant that showcases seasonal menus and a celebrated tasting experience, with breakfast reimagined for hotel guests. Wellness is equally central, with a level-64 sanctuary that includes treatment rooms, hydrotherapy pools, a sauna and steam room.

From its panoramic perch to its attentive service and indulgent facilities, Ritz-Carlton Melbourne offers an unparalleled city stay – a hotel experience that feels both elevated and unforgettable.

Time Out tip: The 20-metre heated infinity pool is the standout, complete with submerged lounges gazing across the skyline. Even the gym’s treadmills come with a view.

Address: 650 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia.

Price: From around £278 + £28 (approx. AUD 540) per night. Rates vary by date and room type.

Closest Transport: Southern Cross Station is about a 410-metre walk. Flagstaff Station is 400–580 metres away.

There’s a widely held belief that the “W” in W Hotels stands for “wow”. A few minutes into your stay at W Melbourne, you’ll be convinced that the theory is true. From the abundant breakfast buffet (complete with Bloody Mary station and a roaming tray of smoothie shots) to the sky-high rooftop pool, every element here has been considered – and delivered with shameless, main character pizzazz.

For a taste of inner-city luxury, you can’t go past W Melbourne. The hotel, which opened in February of 2021, packs 294 guest rooms, 29 suites, a secret bar and two restaurants into its Flinders Lane digs – and still manages to feel boutique rather than behemoth.  

Time Out tip: Head to the indoor pool before 7am for a solo swim, and you might even see hot air balloons pass by the windows.

Address: 408 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000

Price per night:  From $365 per night.

Closest transport link: Southern Cross Station is an 11-minute walk from the hotel, and the closest tram stop is Flinders Street Railway Station/Elizabeth Street.

Since Time Out Melbourne first heard whispers that 1 Hotel – the eco-driven, luxury hotel juggernaut with a focus on blending sustainability with beautiful biophilic design touches – was coming to Melbourne, it’s safe to say that we were pretty excited. And now, after a $600 million redevelopment of the heritage-listed Goods Shed No. 5 in the North Wharf precinct along the Yarra River, it has finally opened its doors to the public.

From the minute you walk through the doors of 1 Hotel Melbourne and into the lobby, it’s impossible not to feel charmed by the laid-back luxury. A cute little farm stand stocked with fresh apples is set up to the side (handy for hungry kiddies), while a large board has information on the restaurant opening hours, spa treatments and ‘happenings’ – aka activities like DJ sessions, full moon readings, cheese and wine nights, and yoga classes. 

Time Out tip: Book a table at the on-site restaurant, where menu highlights include the twice-baked Meredith Dairy goat’s cheese soufflé (this is gasp-out-loud good), house spaghettini with white anchovies (light, delicate and oh-so-salty) and Valenca free-range porchetta (I would go back for this plate of food alone).

Address: 9 Maritime Place, Docklands, Victoria, 3008.

Price per night: Starting from $350 per night.

Closest transport link: Southern Cross Station is a ten-minute walk from the hotel, while the city's free tram line is a two-minute walk away.

Melbourne Place is one of the city’s most exciting new hotels, setting itself apart from the moment you step inside and catch the signature woody black tea scent drifting through the lobby. Designed by Kennedy Nolan with contributions from acclaimed creatives, the 16-storey property blends bold architecture with warm, earthy interiors. Its 192 rooms and suites each embrace a distinct palette, anchored by rich timber, soft furnishings and thoughtful details like complimentary artisanal snacks, lush Frette linen, and Aesop bath products. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame city views, best enjoyed from the impossibly soft Jardan sofas or while soaking in a rain shower.

The hotel is also a serious destination for dining. Mid-Air, the rooftop restaurant and bar by chef Nick Deligiannis, serves Mediterranean-leaning plates against a backdrop of “Eye” shaped windows and golden sunset views. Marmelo, from Ross and Sunny Lusted, brings modern Portuguese flavours to the ground floor, while the subterranean Mr Mills delivers inventive cocktails late into the night. Breakfast is as memorable as dinner, from seafood-topped crumpets to inventive takes on classics.

Combining striking design, world-class food and a prime city location, Melbourne Place feels effortlessly glamorous yet welcoming – a hotel that’s as much about the experience as the stay itself.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss a rooftop sunset Spritz at Mid-Air – it’s Melbourne Place at its finest.

Address: Corner of Russell and Bourke Streets, Melbourne.

Price per night: From $300 per night.

Closest transport link: Melbourne Central Station is an 8 minute walk from the hotel.

Beyond having the best of Fitzroy and the CBD on its doorstep, the StandardX also boasts plenty to love within its walls. As soon as you enter, you’re led through a bright red cocoon-like revolving door (one of the more interesting hotel entrances you’ll have the pleasure to walk through), and into a plant-filled foyer that playfully straddles the line between boho and industrial-chic. 

It’s bougie, for sure, but still artsy enough to feel like it belongs to the Northside. The designers have taken inspiration from Fitzroy’s post-punk 'Little Band' scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s, paying homage to its music venues, street art and café culture – historic pulse points of this vibrant ’hood. 

Time Out tip: Opt for a late dinner booking so that you can maximise your time spent on the rooftop at dusk beforehand. We arranged our evening the other way around, and the rooftop later at night is chillier and less busy. 

Address: 62 Rose Street, Fitzroy

Price per night: From $229 per night

Closest transport link: The Number 11 tram runs along Brunswick Street near the hotel, connecting Fitzroy to the CBD

Opened in 2016, the QT Melbourne has made quite a splash in the city – its 188 rooms can be hard to come by, so if you’ve got your heart set on staying, book in advance. The brand new building has a grand entrance – all soaring ceilings, wood panels and marble. You’ll find a large selection of mostly digital art flickering throughout the hotel, and rooms have an orient-meets-Wall Street vibe, with timber floorboards, glamorous en suites and QT’s “please-don’t-make-me-get-up-I-don’t-want-to-get-up” gel-topped beds.

Time Out tip: The QT is directly opposite one of Time Out’s favourite restaurants and wine bars, Embla. Don’t leave town without nabbing a table.

Address: 133 Russell Street, Melbourne

Price per night: From $296 per night.

Closest transport link: Russell Street/ Flinders Street tram stop six is just a two minute walk from the hotel.

Located on Albert Street – with spectacular views taking in everything from the Princess Theatre to the MCG – Lanson Place Parliament Gardens is the brand’s very first Australian hotel, and expertly blends heritage elements with modern touches. It is, after all, housed in the historic 1901 Salvation Army Printing Works building, which has been beautifully restored to its full glory; the fabulous front facade sure does make for a grand first impression. 

Attached at the back is a new tower that boasts 137 rooms, including studios, one- and two-bedroom suites and two exclusive penthouses. I’m shacked up in a one-bedroom apartment, and it has everything you could need for a cheeky staycation. I’m talking a dreamy king-size bed, a giant bathroom with a shower and bath, and a generous lounge-kitchen area that could very well be bigger than my own at home. 

While the central location means there’s a plethora of restaurants at your doorstep, it’s well worth staying in for a bite to eat at Chronicle 502 Bar and Dining, which is situated right in the foyer of the hotel. 

Time Out tip: make sure you pop into Chronicle 502 Bar and Dining and order the Gardens by the Bay cocktail – with matcha and coconut this lip-smackingly fresh concoction could almost be mistaken for a healthy smoothie, if not for the cheeky splash of vodka. Yum!

Address: 502 Albert St, East Melbourne

Price per night: From $279 per night.

Closest transport link: Parliament Train Station is a two minute walk from the hotel.

It’s been a cinema, a nightclub, a live theatre and even a Pentecostal church, but nowadays, this historic institution on 20 Bourke Street glistens as the glamorous Le Méridien hotel. Originally built as a hotel in the 1850s, the venue has long been a keystone of Melbourne’s arts and culture scene as the former site of the Palace Theatre and Metro Nightclub, where live music once reverberated wall-to-wall.

Like the iterations that came before, Le Méridien Melbourne invites visitors to experience the richness of the city’s sprawling art, cuisine and culture. Riffing on its art deco facade, the 235-room hotel is where contemporary chic meets mid century elegance. 

All of the rooms are doused in the brand's signature scent, and come complete with Malin and Goetz toiletries, signature Le Méridien beds, Marshall speakers, 55-inch LCD TVs, a coffee machine with pods, a chic marble bathroom and a dedicated working desk. The 14 larger suites feature black stone kitchenettes, Smeg appliances, beautifully crafted oak board games and Yamaha MusicCast 500 turntables with a selection of vinyl from artists like Prince and James Brown, who once sang at this very site.  

Time Out tip: Head to the rooftop at nightfall (before it closes at 10pm) and swim in the pool flanked by the skyscrapers and under a blanket of stars. 

Address: 20 Bourke St, Melbourne

Price per night: From $531 per night

Closest transport link: Parliament Station is a five minute walk from the hotel. 

Situated in the heart of the city on Flinders Lane, guests come here for the vibes, without a doubt. This incredible 29-story hotel knows how to turn heads with its Instagramable room decor comprised of contemporary decor and vibrant, eye-catching colour schemes that put you in a sunny mood if that's even a thing (we guess it is now)! The bells and whistles continue at the indoor rooftop pool offering fabulous views as you lap up your calming surroundings. On top of this Quincy serves all-day refreshments to help you refuel in between sightseeing and shopping, laundry services, a bar lounge and an energetic dining experience at the on-site restaurant. 

Time Out tip: Soak up the Hosier Lane vibes even more at Tres A Cinco, a Mexican cocktail bar and by far one of the best spots for a marg in Melbourne. 

Address: 509 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000.

Price per night: Prices start at around $190 per night.

Closest transport link: The closest train station to Quincy Hotel Melbourne is Southern Cross Station (about 800 metres away). The closest tram stop (Spencer Street/Collins Street) is about a three-minute walk north of the hotel. 

Everything about Ovolo’s South Yarra outpost is perfectly suited to its Chapel Street adjacent location. No detail has been overlooked in accomplishing the hotel’s groovy, 1960s-70s aesthetic. Make note of restaurant Lona Misa on your way to check in, as it’s here you can grab a plant-based breakfast, lunch or dinner while staying at the hotel.

Time Out tip: Have a canine friend in the family? Ovolo is completely pet-friendly and will even provide a bed, dog bowls and treats for your dog.

Address: 234 Toorak Rd, South Yarra 

Price per night: From $200

Closest transport link: South Yarra Railway Station is just 200 meters from the hotel.

Grand Hyatt Melbourne is one of the city’s landmark hotels, offering elegance and five-star hospitality in the heart of Melbourne. As well as its grid-worthy views, one of the best things about this luxe spot is its stellar location. How good is it being close to the action when you’re on holidays – where you can lace up and immerse yourself in the energy and magic of the streets? With Grand Hyatt Melbourne being walking distance to excellent restaurants and bars, top-notch attractions, and easy access to trains and trams, you can do just that here. And in case the name didn’t give it away – it’s also a pretty luxe experience. Whether you’re visiting Melbourne for work, an anniversary or a birthday, you can stay in style and comfort here.

Time Out tip: If you’re looking for a place to stay in Melbourne with cracking views and a side of luxury – this is it.

Address: 123 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Price per night: Prices start at around $350

Closest transport link: Flinders Street Station is a seven-minute walk away

Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne was the second property to open in Australia when it first welcomed guests in June 2021, following Mövenpick Hotel Hobart. Situated within the six-level podium of Melbourne's Premier Tower at the corner of Spencer and Bourke Streets (and just across the street from Southern Cross Station) Mövenpick is an ace place to stay for those keen on exploring the city and beyond. Sports fans will be pleased to know it’s also 500 metres away from Marvel Stadium. Plus, the stylish hotel is home to a 24-hour gym, glistening pool, modern Asian-inspired restaurant Miss Mi, and perhaps the best thing of all: a daily complimentary chocolate hour. How sweet’s that?

Time Out tip: While the free chocolate hour is only for hotel guests, if you’re in the area you can still rock up to purchase that indulgent Mövenpick ice cream parfait. It’s $20 and the perfect size for two people, or one especially ambitious chocolate-lover. 

Address: 160 Spencer St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Price per night: Prices start at $278 per night

Closest transport link: You’ll be staying right across from Southern Cross Station

Since it opened in 1997, Crown Casino has been more than just a glorified pokie tavern. Hundreds of millions have been pumped into building new hotels, restaurants, bars and shops, and the outcome is a complex that’s huge in some aspects, yet intimate in others.

It’s on the intimate side where Crown comes into its own, especially in and around the flagship hotel, Crown Towers. The old girl is looking more glamorous than ever and thanks to a $85 million the rejuvenation of the lobby, rooms, suites and club lounge, the hotel is nothing short of Melbourne’s finest.

Time Out tip: When you book, make sure you get Crystal Club access which provides complimentary breakfast and evening canapés in a private lounge, while rounding out a romantic getaway is a treatment at the rejuvenated Crown Spa.

Address: 8 Whiteman St, Southbank

Price per night: From $338 per night

Closest transport link: The closest transport link to Crown Towers Melbourne is the Casino/MCEC/Clarendon Street tram stop (Stop 124A), located directly outside the hotel.

Tucked away on a leafy side street off South Yarra’s bustling Toorak Road is the Lyall – a luxe boutique hotel that seeks to emulate a Parisian escape in the heart of Melbourne. 

Over the past 20 years it has garnered a reputation as a beloved establishment, but after closing for two years for a transformative renovation, it’s now back with dazzling, all-new interiors that still maintain its charming character. 

There are an array of options across the 49 rooms and suites to suit different guests, and all of them have luxury amenities (there are Dyson hair dryers in every room!). 

Time Out tip: to really embrace the European theme, dine out at classic French restaurant France-Soir, which is just a five minute walk from the hotel. 

Address: 16 Murphy St, South Yarra

Price per night: From $305 per night.

Closest transport link: The closest transport link is South Yarra Railway Station, approximately 350 meters from the hotel.

This designer boutique hotel is housed in a building that was once a prestige car showroom, first built in 1928. While the modern fit-out hits all the right notes, the Royce still carries an understated historical elegance, with a grand staircase, ornate ceilings and statement chandelier evoking a sense of theatrical drama in the lobby. Whether staying in the King Room or the Royce Suite, guests are assured five-star service every step of the way.

While it is a heritage-listed building that has classic charm, the team behind the hotel have put in the work so that it still feels current. In 2023, it unveiled a fresh look after two years of renovations, still paying homage to the aesthetics of the roaring '20s. Situated on St Kilda Road overlooking the Royal Botanic Gardens, the hotel houses 94 rooms and suites across six floors, many with expansive private terraces. 

The Showroom Bar and Restaurant serves a seasonal menu with Australian produce for lunch, dinner and drinks, with an adjoining lounge adorned by the building's original vaulted ceiling. A European-style breakfast and brunch is also served in foliage-filled the Terrace café. The whole experience is curated to hark back to an era of refined glamour, encouraging visitors to revel in the elegance.

Time Out tip: If you can peek into the hotel's ballroom, you'll see a feature wall decorated with original Rolls Royce chrome grills. 

Address: 379 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Price per night: From $302

Closest transport link: The closest transport link to The Royce Hotel is the Tram Route 6.

With a prime location on the west side of Melbourne’s buzzing CBD, the Dorsett Melbourne is a swanky 316-suite hotel just minutes away from many of the city’s key attractions.  

Although the Dorsett Melbourne doesn’t technically fall into the luxury (read: most expensive) category, there are still plenty of fancy touches to be found. Business travellers and entrepreneurs can make use of the 24-hour reception, the lobby co-working space or get some privacy (and some canapés) at the level two Club Lounge, provided complimentary with executive rooms and suites.

Families will also have everything they need on hand for a comfortable stay including complimentary portacots and an indoor pool heated to a balmy 26 degrees. 

Relax with a stint in the steam room, sauna and wellness space, order some room service, then head to the sophisticated Jin Bar for a nightcap. There’s also Merriment Café for your morning coffee and an on-site, light-filled restaurant for one of the tastiest buffet breakfasts this side of town. 

Time Out tip: Book a Diva Garden room or suite and look into the hidden inner atrium where you’ll find the Diva Garden, conceptualised and brought to life by artist and architect Marta Figueiredo and centred around a towering sculpture. 

Address: 615 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.

Price per night: From $180 per night.

Closest transport link: The hotel is inside Melbourne’s free tram zone and Southern Cross Station – from which you can hop on a long distance train or a Skybus to the airport – is a short walk away.