Wondering where to stay in Melbourne? Here’s my guide to the best Melbourne neighbourhoods.
If you’re an out-of-towner and you’re planning your trip to Melbourne, one of the first questions (after “where should I eat?” – if you’re anything like me…) will likely be, “where should I stay in Melbourne?”
And it’s an important question to ask, because where you stay will determine the experience you have in this wonderful city of Melbourne.
But, no matter where you stay in Melbourne, there’s plenty to see, do and eat.
As a Melbourne local who knows this city like the back of my hand, I’ve picked what I think are the coolest Melbourne neighbourhoods to base yourself in. I’ve even added a few suggested activities to experience in each area.
So, let’s find you some Melbourne accommodation!
This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).
Quick overview of where to stay in Melbourne
Here’s my quick and dirty guide to where to stay for certain types of travellers.
- Where to stay in Melbourne for first-timers – the CBD
- Where to stay in Melbourne for hipsters and cool kids – Collingwood or Fitzroy
- Where to stay in Melbourne for foodies – the CBD (or anywhere, really)
- Where to stay in Melbourne for sports lovers – Richmond
- Where to stay in Melbourne for nightlife – Prahran, Collingwood, St Kilda or Fitzroy
- Where to stay in Melbourne for families – the CBD, St Kilda or East Melbourne
- Where to stay in Melbourne for shopaholics – Prahran, the CBD
Read on to figure out where are the best places to stay in Melbourne for you.
Where to stay in Melbourne: The CBD
The CBD is the heart of the city. It’s the central business district and it’s where you’ll find businesses and government offices. It’s also where most of the main Melbourne attractions are located – museums, galleries, laneways, street art, bars, restaurants and parks are all here.
Chances are you’ll visit the CBD at least once during your visit to Melbourne, so if you’re planning to spend a good portion of your trip here, it’s a good place to base yourself.
Why stay in the Melbourne CBD?
Staying in Melbourne’s CBD puts you right in the heart of it. You won’t have to travel very far to get to the best Melbourne attractions. And even if you want to go further out of the city, the CBD is the public transport hub so you’re connected to every suburb, making it one of the best areas to stay in Melbourne.
There’s a free tram that runs through the CBD and stops at most of the major tourist attractions, so staying in the CBD means you can save money on public transport.
There’s so much to do in the Melbourne city centre, you seriously won’t get bored. From exploring Melbourne’s best museums to roaming the laneways in search of cool street art to sipping cocktails in hidden bars, you can easily fill a week in Melbourne without ever leaving the CBD.
There are also plenty of hotels in the CBD, so you can be picky when browsing all the Melbourne hotels in the area. These range from cheap accommodation in Melbourne (including plenty of hostels and budget hotels) to luxury Melbourne accommodation.
Why avoid the CBD?
The CBD can be very busy – especially during weekdays when everyone’s rushing to and from work. Even on weekends, the city is a rush of people checking out restaurants and shows.
I also don’t think the CBD is very “authentic” Melbourne – it’s not where Melburnians live. It’s a place where people go to work, where students study and where tourists flock, so you don’t really get the vibe of what local life is like for people in Melbourne.
Where to stay in Melbourne CBD
Check out my full guide to Melbourne CBD accommodation, or use the quick list below to narrow down your choice.
Budget
- ibis Melbourne Central – Just behind Melbourne Central, this budget hotel is in a great spot. While rooms are small, they’ve got a minimalist design and are clean. Book a stay online | Read reviews of ibis Melbourne Central online
- Flinders Backpackers – Excellent location close to Flinders Street Station and Fed Square. There’s a bar, shared lounge and free wifi. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Flinders Backpackers online
Mid-range
- Novotel Melbourne on Collins – Spacious rooms and the beds get top marks for comfort. Each room has a view over the hotel’s glass atrium or down onto Collins Street below. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Novotel Melbourne on Collins online
- Ovolo Laneways – This fairly new hotel has funky artwork, spacious rooms and a free minibar in each room, making it one of the best hotels in Melbourne. Book a stay online with Booking.com | Expedia | Read reviews of Ovolo Laneways online
Luxury
- Le Méridien – If you’re in Melbourne for a special occasion, stay at Le Méridien. This 5-star gem gets ticks from me for spacious rooms, friendly service, and comfortable, modern rooms. It’s one of the best places to stay in Melbourne for a special weekend away. Check rates with Booking.com | Expedia
- Adelphi Hotel – One of the funkiest hotels in Melbourne. With only 34 rooms, this is the best place to stay in Melbourne for first-class attention. The rooftop pool has a see-through bottom so you can spy on the people walking in Flinders Lane below. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Adelphi Hotel online
SEE MORE HOTELS IN MELBOURNE CBD
What to do in the CBD
As I’ve said, oh so much! You’ll spend a good portion of your Melbourne itinerary in the CBD (I’ve got guides to a weekend in Melbourne, 3 days in Melbourne and 5 days in Melbourne).
- Check out the free National Gallery of Victoria (special exhibitions do have an entry fee).
- Wander the laneways in search of cool street art – and perhaps stumble across some artists in action. You can book a laneway street art tour to show you the best spots, one of the many walking tours in Melbourne.
- Head out for a night at the theatre. Melbourne attracts big productions, and you can see them at historic theatres like the Regent Theatre, Princess Theatre or Her Majesty’s Theatre.
- Check out Queen Victoria Market. For much of the year there are weekly night markets or you can taste your way through the market on the Ultimate Foodie Tour, which is my favourite Melbourne tour.
- Have a mystery picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens or join the Aboriginal Heritage Walk to learn more about native Australian plans and First Nations culture.
- Check out the city from above from the Eureka Skydeck.
- Scare yourself silly on a night ghost tour at the Old Melbourne Gaol (which once housed the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly).
Where to eat in the CBD
You won’t go hungry in the CBD. This part of Melbourne is jam-packed with restaurants serving up a variety of cuisines. It was actually really hard to only include a few Melbourne restaurants here!
- Get cheap dumplings from anywhere in Chinatown (or join a dumpling tour)
- Dig into a bowl of ramen from Shujinko
- Grab brunch at the very popular Higher Ground – book ahead, especially on weekends
- Gorge on a lobster roll at Supernormal, known for its modern pan-Asian menu
- Join the queue for a table at Chin Chin
Where to stay in Melbourne: Fitzroy and Collingwood
Fitzroy and Collingwood are where I think you’ll find the “real” Melbourne. This is where hipster Melburnians live and play.
I’m putting these two suburbs together because they’re right next to each other and share many of the same achingly cool qualities.
Why stay in Fitzroy and Collingwood?
Fitzroy and Collingwood are always happening. There’s live music, pubs, unique shopping and great food. Staying in this area will give you an insight into how we Melburnians live and allow you to experience cool Melbourne culture. Smith Street in Collingwood was even recently voted the coolest street in the world, and there’s plenty to see and do in Fitzroy!
Why avoid Fitzroy and Collingwood?
There aren’t a lot of reasons to avoid staying in Fitzroy, but I’d say that it’s not a great area for families to stay. There’s not a tonne of stuff here to keep kids entertained, but it is close to the city, so you’re never far from more family-friendly activities.
The two suburbs are also still a bit gritty. It’s not too long ago that you’d see junkies getting high in back streets, but this has largely been cleaned up.
Where to stay in Fitzroy and Collingwood
I have a full guide to where to stay in Fitzroy and Collingwood, which includes the recommended suggestions below.
Budget
- The Nunnery – If you’re looking for a unique backpackers in Melbourne, then the Nunnery is it. Located in a former home for nuns (as the name suggests), this Melbourne hostel has maintained its old-world charm. Book a stay online | Read reviews of The Nunnery online
Mid-range
- Melbourne Metropole Central – This hotel is in a great location, right by trams that head into the city, yet in the heart of hipster Fitzroy and Collingwood. Some rooms have great city views. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Melbourne Metropole Central online
- Comfort Apartments Royal Gardens – These serviced Melbourne apartments are handy if you want to cook for yourself when you visit Melbourne. Bonus: there’s a pool for those hot Melbourne summers! Book a stay online | Read reviews of Comfort Apartments Royal Gardens online
Luxury
- District Apartments – There aren’t any luxury hotels in Collingwood and Fitzroy, but there are amazing apartments like these chic 1- and 2-bedroom apartments in the heart of Fitzroy. Book a stay online
- Tyrian Serviced Apartments – Located on Johnston Street, these apartments are self-catering with options for one or two bedrooms. Book a stay online
CHECK OUT MORE HOTELS IN FITZROY AND COLLINGWOOD
What to do in Fitzroy and Collingwood
- Check out street art, which is one of the best things to do in Melbourne. Much like the CBD, you’ll find plenty of graffiti hidden down alleyways and laneways and out in plain sight. Melbourne Street Tours guides tours, each one led by street artists.
- Pick up some handmade souvenirs at the Rose Street Market, held every weekend. More than 100 crafty creatives bring out their wares for sale.
- Pat farm animals at the Collingwood Children’s Farm, an actual working farm. You can also grab breakfast or a coffee at the Farm Café while you’re there.
- Wander through the studios and galleries at Abbotsford Convent, a former convent that’s been revived.
- Go shopping in the stores along Gertrude St, or pick through the op shops (thrift stores) along Brunswick Street.
Where to eat in Fitzroy and Collingwood
Eclectic Fitzroy and Collingwood both have a diverse dining scene. Top recommendations include:
- Grab $5 pizzas at Kewpie
- Grab a burger in a train on a rooftop (yes, you read that correctly) at Easey’s
- Take in the city views at the rooftop at Naked For Satan and try a few of their tapas
- Grab a pub meal at the Marquis of Lorne (their potato cakes are the best!)
- Munch on some delicious birria tacos from the Dingo Ate My Taco food truck
- For something fancier, book a table at award-winning Cutler & Co
Where to stay in Melbourne: Carlton
Just a hop, skip and a jump from the CBD (you can walk here from the city) is Carlton, Melbourne’s Little Italy. In this neighbourhood you’ll find a mouthwatering range of restaurants, delis and bars, as well as bookstores and shops ready to take your money.
Why stay in Carlton?
The food alone is enough reason to base yourself in Carlton during your trip to Melbourne.
Carlton is also right on the edge of the CBD so you’re close to everything without being right in the heart of the busy-ness of the city, and there are plenty of hotels in Carlton.
Why avoid Carlton?
If you’re driving, parking can be tricky.
Where to stay in Carlton
Budget
- Essence Hotel – Splashes of colour give the rooms in this ideally located hotel a fun vibe. Guests describe the beds as super comfy and the rooms are clean. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Essence Hotel online
Mid-range
- Zagame’s House – This stylish boutique hotel has comfy beds and large, walk-in showers. The staff are known to be friendly and accommodating. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Zagame’s House online
- Best Western Travel Plus Inn – Friendly staff, comfy rooms and a great location near Lygon Street are bonuses on top of the affordability of this hotel. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Best Western Travel Plus Inn online
CHECK OUT MORE HOTELS IN CARLTON
What to do in Carlton
- Check out the Royal Exhibition Building, which has been around since 1880 and was built with money from the gold rush.
- Have a picnic in the Carlton Gardens – you can buy plenty of yummy snacks from the many delis and bakeries that line Lygon Street.
- Learn about Melbourne at the Melbourne Museum.
- Pick up some books at Readings, which has been voted one of the best bookstores in the world in recent years.
Where to eat in Carlton
Carlton is a foodie’s dream and you’ll be rolling yourself out of the many restaurants that are jammed into this historic Melbourne neighbourhood. Top picks include:
- Choose a cheese and wine-tasting plate at Milk the Cow – they even have cheese and sake pairings
- Grab a selection of tapas from Heartattack and Vine
- Agonise over choosing a cake or pastry from Brunetti
- Try the extensive wine list at Carlton Wine Room
- Pick up a slice from D.O.C., a busy pizzeria
- Save room for gelato from Pidapipó (expect a line!)
Where to stay in Melbourne: Richmond
Just a short train or tram ride from the city is Richmond, another top choice for where to stay in Melbourne. This residential, inner-city suburb provides insight into the life of Melburnians but also has some great attractions.
Why stay in Richmond?
Richmond is close to the city, so you’re always close to everything in Melbourne. It’s also a transport hub so you can pretty much get to anywhere you need from Richmond Station (a major train station).
The famous MCG is in Richmond, so sporting fans will find a great base here.
Why avoid Richmond?
Richmond might be a little too residential for some. There’s not a huge range of accommodations to choose from, so you may find yourself in apartments rather than hotels.
Where to stay in Richmond
Mid-range
- Lanbruk Richmond Hill – This stylish condo hotel is close to the MCG and gets top marks for staff friendliness and comfort. Book a stay online
- Adara Richmond – These self-contained apartments are also close to the MCG. Rooms have fully functioning kitchens and there’s a gym on site as well. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Adara Richmond online
Luxury
- The Crofts – This 2-bedroom home has a garden, washing machine and is ideally located. Book a stay online
CHECK OUT MORE HOTELS IN RICHMOND
What to do in Richmond
- Richmond is home to the ‘G, the largest stadium in the southern hemisphere. Here, you can catch an AFL game, a cricket match or even tour the grounds.
- Catch live music at the Corner Hotel, one of Melbourne’s iconic music venues. They also do a great parma (chicken parmigiana, a must-try dish when visiting an Australian pub).
- Head to Bridge Road for shopping. While the shopping scene has changed along the street, there are still bargains to be found in the factory outlets and boutiques.
Where to eat in Richmond
Richmond is where you’ll find some of the best Asian food in the city. But there are plenty of other cuisines on offer.
- Wander Victoria Street and eat pho, Thai food and many other Asian cuisines – just pick a restaurant, it’s hard to make a bad choice! I Love Pho often gets top pick for the best pho in Richmond
- Try sushi at upscale Minamishima
- Head to Top Paddock for a delicious brunch
- Try South American flavours at Onda
- Taste the local brews at Bodriggy Brewing Company or Mountain Goat
Where to stay in Melbourne: Prahran
Shopaholics will be in heaven in this trendy area. It’s hip, but it has a totally different vibe to Collingwood and Fitzroy.
Why stay in Prahran?
This is the place for shopping. If your reason for coming to Melbourne is maxing out your credit card and being seen in stylish bars and restaurants, then there are plenty of places ready to take your money.
Prahran isn’t too far from the city, a 20-30 minute tram ride at most.
Why avoid Prahran?
The first reason might be because you can’t even pronounce the place! You’ll hear most Melburnites call it simply “Pran” in that typical syllable-dropping, drawling way of Australians.
When compared to the CBD, there aren’t a huge number of hotels available.
Where to stay in Prahran
Budget
- Hotel Claremont Guesthouse – The budget-conscious will find a great space at this guesthouse, which is located in an 1800s building. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Hotel Claremont Guesthouse
Mid-range
- Quest Prahran – Another option for self-contained apartments, Quest has 2- and 3-bedroom options with full kitchens. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Quest Prahran online
Luxury
- The Cullen – This boutique hotel features artworks from the late Australian artist Adam Cullen. There are two restaurants onsite, including a dumpling bar. Book a stay online | Read reviews of The Cullen online
CHECK OUT MORE HOTELS IN PRAHRAN
What to do in Prahran
- Go shopping along Chapel Street, Melbourne’s iconic shopping district. This street runs through three suburbs, and you’ll find everything from high-end designer stores to unique boutiques.
- Find unique treasures at vintage-lovers’ delight, the Chapel Street Bazaar.
- Pick up cheeses, salami and other snacks at the Prahran Market, a beautiful, heritage-listed building from the 1800s.
Where to eat in Prahran
Prahran doesn’t disappoint when it comes to food. A few good choices:
- Head to Lucky Coq for pizza or a late-night snack
- Gobble all the yum cha (dim sum) you can at David’s, a well-known Chinese restaurant
- Take the stairs above Revolver and its gritty floors and eat Thai at Colonel Tan’s
- Try French-influenced pub food at L’Hotel Gitan
Where to stay in Melbourne: St Kilda
On a sunny day, this is Melbourne at its finest: bay views, the wide esplanade, palm trees and beaches. St Kilda draws crowds for many reasons, and it’s a great area for families, backpackers, music lovers, artsy types and foodies to base themselves.
Why stay in St Kilda?
The beach attracts lovers of the outdoors, and the music and food scene just adds to the hedonistic vibe. St Kilda has plenty to suit everyone. This is the best area to stay in Melbourne for families.
It’s a short, 20-minute tram ride to the city, so it’s a good place for people who want to experience everything Melbourne has to offer.
Why avoid St Kilda?
While St Kilda has moved on from its past reputation as a haven for hookers and junkies, it’s still got a grungy vibe. Some parts of St Kilda can feel a bit unsafe at night, so avoid dark alleyways and unlit streets.
Where to stay in St Kilda
There are so many hotels in St Kilda, for all budgets and needs.
Budget
- Nomads St Kilda – This hostel is in a great location, within walking distance to Luna Park and the beach. All rooms have air-conditioning and bathrooms. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Base Backpackers online
- Como Court Budget – This affordable option has a mix of private rooms and 2-bedroom apartments. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Como Court Budget online
Mid-range
- Crest on Park – This stylish condo hotel is close to St Kilda Pier and gets rave reviews for cleanliness, comfort and staff. Book a stay online | Read reviews of Crest on Park online
- Quest St Kilda Bayside – This recently refurbished hotel has self-contained rooms with full kitchens. It’s in an excellent location near the St Kilda Foreshore, so you can pop down to see the little penguins each evening. Book a stay on Booking.com | Check rates on Expedia
Luxury
- The Prince – This boutique hotel is adjoined to the award-winning Prince Dining Room. There’s a spa onsite that offers massages and other treatments. Book a stay online | Read reviews of The Prince online
CHECK OUT MORE HOTELS IN ST KILDA
What to do in St Kilda
- Sunbathe on St Kilda Beach, a 700-metre-long slice of sand. Take a dip in the water or simply lay back and watch the kitesurfers, sailors, rollerbladers, cyclists and runners that pound the pavements and ride the waters each day.
- Check out the cute Little Penguins that waddle up to St Kilda Pier each night to nest. The penguins come out of the water around sunset and head back just before sunrise.
- Ride the rickety rollercoaster at Luna Park – which is more than 100 years old! I’ve done it and was scared sh*tless at every bump. Luna Park is free to enter and you can buy rides individually or unlimited passes. This is a great family activity with kids in Melbourne.
- Catch a gig at the Palais Theatre, an iconic venue that dates back to the 1920s. The Rolling Stones, Tom Jones and legends of Australian music have all played here.
- Head to the St Kilda Esplanade Market to peruse the arts and crafts stalls. The market is held every Sunday.
Where to eat in St Kilda
A foodie’s paradise, St Kilda is home to iconic eateries. Make room for a few:
- Brunch the morning (and early afternoon) away at Fitzrovia
- Taste the classic menu at Donovans, a Melbourne institution
- Dive into award-winning food at the famous Stokehouse, complete with ocean views
- Try something more casual at the Stokehouse’s downstairs restaurant, Pontoon
- Nibble on pizzas and pub faves at Lona St Kilda
- Get spicy at Babu Ji, which serves up delicious Indian food
Travel tips for a Melbourne trip
A few things to keep in mind when planning your visit to Melbourne:
- Expect high prices. Melbourne (like the rest of Australia) ain’t cheap. You’ll get sticker shock when you see the prices of hotels, meals, drinks, public transport, clothing… yeah, everything. But there are ways to save money – here’s a guide on free things to do in Melbourne!
- Book transport and hotels in advance, especially if you’re coming during high season, like summer or during school holidays (check out my guide to the best time to visit Melbourne for tips).
- Check out more of my Melbourne travel tips.
I hope this guide has helped you figure out where to stay on your first time or your next visit to Melbourne! If you want to explore outside of the city, check out my guides to the best Airbnbs in Victoria or day trips from Melbourne for inspiration.
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What’s your pick for where to stay in Melbourne? Drop any questions in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help you plan your trip to Melbourne.
Related posts
Before you go… you might like these Melbourne accommodation posts:
- Best boutique hotels in Melbourne
- Amazing 5-star hotels in Melbourne for a luxe getaway
- Must-stay hotels in the Melbourne CBD
- The best family accommodation in Melbourne
- Where to stay in Fitzroy, Collingwood and Carlton
- Great serviced apartments in Melbourne
- Best hotels near Melbourne Airport
- Best hostels in Melbourne
- Awesome Airbnbs in Victoria for a weekend getaway
Best Melbourne resources
- Check out my Melbourne travel guide for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Melbourne
- Look for flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner.
- Book accommodation on Booking.com or Expedia for your Melbourne trip. The Ovolo Laneways Hotel is a good choice in the CBD.
- You won’t really need a car in Melbourne, but if you do want to get out of the city, then rent a car through DiscoverCars.
- Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet Pocket Melbourne to help plan your trip.
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