Best areas at a glance
| Area | Best for | Mid-range price per night |
|---|---|---|
| CBD | First-timers, transport, laneways | A$180–280 |
| Southbank | Views, arts precinct, families | A$200–320 |
| Fitzroy / Collingwood | Food, bars, local life | A$170–260 |
| St Kilda | Beach, budget, sunsets | A$150–240 |
| South Yarra / Prahran | Shopping, dining, gardens | A$180–270 |
| Docklands | Waterfront apartments, events | A$170–250 |
Prices are typical for double rooms outside big events. During the Australian Open (January), the Grand Prix (March) and the Melbourne Cup (early November), rates can jump sharply.
CBD (city centre)
The grid between Flinders Street and La Trobe Street holds the laneways, arcades, shopping and most restaurants. It sits inside the Free Tram Zone, so getting around is easy and free. The eastern end (near Collins Street and Spring Street) is the most elegant; the west near Southern Cross Station is handy for the SkyBus.
- Luxury: QT Melbourne, Park Hyatt
- Mid-range: Ovolo Laneways, Hotel Indigo on Flinders Lane
- Budget: Space Hotel (private rooms and dorms)
Southbank
Across the Yarra River from Flinders Street Station, with the Arts Centre, NGV International, Crown and riverside restaurants. Rooms often have big views. It is a 5–10 minute walk to the CBD.
- Luxury: The Langham, Crown Towers
- Mid-range: serviced apartments near Southbank Boulevard
Fitzroy and Collingwood
Melbourne’s creative inner north, full of cafés, vintage shops, live music and bars along Brunswick, Gertrude and Smith streets. Hotels are few; most stays are apartments and small guesthouses. Trams 11 and 86 run to the CBD in about 10–15 minutes.
St Kilda
Melbourne’s beach suburb, with the pier, Luna Park, Acland Street cake shops and a lively backpacker scene. It is 25–30 minutes from the CBD on tram 96.
- Boutique: The Prince
- Budget: Base Backpackers St Kilda
South Yarra and Prahran
Leafy and upmarket, with Chapel Street shopping, Prahran Market and the Botanic Gardens nearby. South Yarra station has fast trains to the city.
- Boutique: The Lyall, The Cullen (Prahran)
Docklands
Modern apartments on the water, close to Marvel Stadium and inside the Free Tram Zone. Good for longer stays and event-goers, but quieter at night.
Compare hotel prices in MelbourneWhich area is right for you?
- First visit, short stay: CBD or Southbank.
- Families: Southbank or Docklands apartments.
- Couples and foodies: Fitzroy or South Yarra.
- Budget or beach: St Kilda.
Plan your days with our Melbourne itinerary.
For events, opening hours and official visitor information, see Visit Melbourne, the official tourism site.
More Melbourne guides
- Melbourne travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Melbourne
- Melbourne itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Best time to visit Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport to the city
- Great Ocean Road day trip
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Australia ETA and eVisitor
FAQ: where to stay in Melbourne
What is the best area to stay in Melbourne for tourists?
The CBD: it is central, walkable and inside the Free Tram Zone.
Is it safe to stay in Melbourne CBD?
Yes, it is generally safe. As in any big city, stay aware late at night around busy nightlife streets.
Is St Kilda a good place to stay?
Yes, if you want the beach and a relaxed vibe. It is further from the sights, but tram 96 makes the trip easy.
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