How to find the best hotel deal in Melbourne
The same magic that powers our flight search can also help you find the best-value stays around. Use these hacks to search smarter and pocket savings on your Melbourne hotel.
The earlier you book, the better. You're more likely to score a cheaper rate on a Melbourne hotel and have a wider range of choice when you plan in advance.
Still, be ready to pounce on any last-minute deals. Some places discount their rates shortly before arrival to fill rooms. This is more likely to happen in low season or on quieter days, though.
The more flexible your dates, the better the bargains. Change up your travel window to discover what deals are on offer. Prices are typically cheaper midweek and during less popular months.
Save yourself from extra fees by searching for stays with free cancellation. If your plans change or a better deal pops up, you can cancel or modify your booking without penalty.
Where to stay in Melbourne
Central Melbourne
To get the most out of central Melbourne, you'll want to be near the attractions that brought you here in the first place. Here are a few hotels worth booking close to the highlights.
United Places Hotel Botanic Gardens sets you up in a prime spot. Around 2 kilometres away, this 5-star stay is one of the most sought-after hotels near Melbourne Park. It gets a lot of bookings from couples in particular.
When it comes to hotels near Arts Centre Melbourne, Treasury on Collins Melbourne wins points for comfort and convenience. Make yourself at home at this 4-star hotel in Melbourne and you'll be about 0.80 kilometres away. While it works well for all kinds of guests, it especially appeals to families.
Or experience everything the city has to offer from one of the hotels near Melbourne Skydeck. Zagame's House is 2 kilometres or so from this well-known sight. It's a leading choice for business travellers and has a 5-star rating.
When to go to Melbourne
Tourism hits a high point in December. If you want to be there when things are in full swing, there's no better time to lock in a hotel in Melbourne.
March is the best month to lock in your Melbourne hotel for a more laid-back experience.
The weather is worth considering when choosing your travel dates. January offers the warmest conditions, with maximum temperatures of 28ºC (82ºF).
July is the coolest month, with lows of 3ºC (37ºF).
Browse around for Melbourne hotels during February for the best chance of clearer skies. Averaging five days of rain, this is the driest month.
The wettest time of year is August. Plan your trip then and you can expect to get around ten days of rainfall.
Best hotels in Melbourne
Best budget hotels
Why pay more? Budget Melbourne hotels provide the basics so you can spend your money on what really counts: having adventures and buying too many souvenirs. Often equipped with money-saving amenities like kitchenettes and laundry facilities, you'll find at least 50 of these well-priced stays across the city.
The Courthouse Hotel serves up comfort without the cost. Make use of a restaurant, air conditioning and more at this 3-star accommodation option in North Melbourne.
Alternatively, check the availability at Box Hill Motel. Equipped with conveniences such as hair dryers and accessible parking, this 3-star Melbourne hotel packs in everything you need, and nothing you don't.
Wi-Fi and a laundry are only a sample of what's offered at Ibis Melbourne Hotel and Apartments. Another win for your budget, this place is rated 3 stars.
Best 4-star hotels in Melbourne
When you're craving a little more from your stay, the 4-star hotels in Melbourne deliver. With around 100 choices, they generally offer rooms with character, attentive service, and extras such as restaurants, bars, and guest lounges. These hotels feel upgraded without feeling overdone.
Quest Collingwood offers the kind of stay that feels a cut above the rest. Room service and concierge assistance help make up the 4-star experience here.
Another Melbourne hotel to keep in mind is Travelodge Hotel Melbourne Southbank. It features thoughtful amenities such as room service and concierge assistance.
Adelphi Hotel is also one to keep on your list. It keeps stays enjoyable with a pool, bathrobes and more.
Best luxury 5-star hotels
You could just find a place to rest your head. Or you could book one of the 40 or so 5-star hotels in Melbourne and get the VIP treatment. Think things like personalised spa treatments, gourmet dining spots, and prime locations. (And maybe even a personal concierge on speed dial.) Most of these premium stays are in East Melbourne.
Step into a world of luxury at Lanson Place Parliament Gardens. Concierge assistance and an indoor swimming pool help enhance the experience at this East Melbourne hotel.
Featuring bathrobes, an indoor swimming pool and more, Adina Apartment Hotel Pentridge Melbourne is another Melbourne hotel that brings the signature 5-star flair.
QT Melbourne is one more choice. Make the most of its many perks including concierge assistance and car rental options.
Best hotels in Melbourne for families
Finding the right hotel can change the whole experience when travelling with kids. With things like playgrounds, activity programmes, and spacious suites, family-friendly hotels in Melbourne are loaded with perks that make the trip easier. Choose from around 80 of these stays that balance fun for kids with comfort for adults.
Bring luxury to your family escape at MainStay Suites Williamstown. Rated 4 stars, this Melbourne hotel offers luggage storage and room service.
Another place to consider is Hume Villa Motor Inn Under NEW Management. Offering a playground and luggage storage, this stay is a solid pick.
Best hotels with a spa
Step away from the crowds and into calm at a Melbourne hotel with a spa. With roughly 60 to choose from, they're all about relaxation. Many offer features like steam rooms, hot tubs, beauty treatments, and plunge pools. You'll find most of these stays in Docklands.
Press pause on the everyday at In The Brick Spa And Hotel. This 4-star option comes with all the right perks, including massage services and a beauty salon.
Or choose Treasury on Collins Melbourne. With things like a fireplace and concierge assistance, this 4-star hotel in Melbourne has what you need to unwind.
After checking in to The Lyall, you'll wonder why you waited so long to visit. This South Yarra accommodation option is rated 5 stars and comes with amenities such as room service and a spa.
Best hotels with a pool
A pool adds another element of fun to a trip. Book a resort and you'll usually find large outdoor setups and maybe even splash pads for kids. At city hotels, indoor and rooftop pools are the norm. Choose from at least 80 pool hotels in Melbourne and get set to dive right in.
Make relaxing poolside a priority at Lanson Place Parliament Gardens. With an indoor swimming pool, parking and a 24-hour front desk, this 5-star Melbourne hotel is located in East Melbourne.
Bring your swim gear and soak up the vibes at Lanson Place Parliament Gardens. An indoor swimming pool, express check-in and a bar are just a taste of what's included.
Or add a little play to your stay at Adina Apartment Hotel Pentridge Melbourne. You'll have access to an indoor swimming pool, parking and express check-out at this hotel.
Best pet-friendly hotels
Travelling's better with your pet by your side. From cosy beds and feeding bowls to off-leash zones, pet-friendly hotels are designed to make you and your best buddy feel at home. There are around 20 Melbourne hotels ready to welcome your furry friend.
You pack the chew toys, Quest Collingwood will take care of everything else. Amenities like luggage storage and a fitness centre add to the comfort of this pet-friendly hotel in Melbourne.
Let your little buddy tag along on exciting adventures at MainStay Suites Abbotsford. Station shuttle services and a fitness centre are part of what's included at this pet-approved accommodation option.
Rated 4 stars, Sora East Melbourne ensures comfort for all guests, big and small. It's in East Melbourne and features luggage storage and internet access.
Flying to Melbourne
Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL)
Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) is the city's main airport. Once your flight to Melbourne has landed, it's around 19 kilometres to the centre.
It takes around 25 minutes to reach central Melbourne by ride-share or taxi. The journey by public transport is roughly 35 minutes.
Ibis Budget Melbourne Airport is a convenient choice if you're flying in late. Close to the airport and with a 3-star rating, guests often mention its location as one of the main reasons to stay.
Need another recommendation? Mantra Melbourne Airport offers comfort you can count on before or after a flight. Many business travellers make this 4-star hotel their go-to.
Melbourne Essendon Airport (MEB)
Melbourne Essendon Airport (MEB) joins the list of airports serving Melbourne. The city centre is about 11 kilometres away.
It takes around 20 minutes to get to central Melbourne by car and 55 minutes or so on public transport.
Spend a restful night at Punthill Essendon North before heading into the city. Close to MEB, this Melbourne hotel has a 4-star rating. Guest reviews often mention its rooms as a highlight.
The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds is a 4-star option that makes even a short stop feel rewarding. Its overall rating of more than 4 out of 5 proves it's a reliable choice.
Accessible parking and an airport shuttle are just some of the amenities on offer at Hyatt Place Melbourne, Essendon Fields. It makes convenience a focus and comes with a 4-star rating.
