In this blog post, we will be looking at where to stay in Melbourne as a tourist and the best areas to stay in Melbourne for tourists. I’ll also give you the list of the best hotels in Melbourne for all budget travelers, and the safest places to stay in Melbourne.
Melbourne is the capital and most populous city in the state of Victoria, Australia. It is known for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and a wide range of attractions and activities.
Melbourne has a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot, and winters are cool to mild. It’s known for its variable weather, with the saying, “Four seasons in one day,” highlighting the city’s rapid weather changes.
Melbourne is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, with residents from many different countries and ethnic backgrounds. This diversity is reflected in the city’s cuisine, festivals, and cultural events.
Melbourne is often referred to as the cultural capital of Australia. It is known for its thriving arts scene, including theaters, galleries, and music venues, as well as numerous festivals throughout the year.
Melbourne is known for its diverse and vibrant food scene. It has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors offering cuisine from various parts of the world. The city’s coffee culture is particularly renowned.
Some notable landmarks in Melbourne include Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, the Royal Exhibition Building, and the Eureka Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
The city is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, and the Yarra River’s scenic banks. These green spaces provide opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Melbourne has an extensive public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains. The city’s iconic tram network is the largest in the world. Melbourne also has a well-connected road network and is served by the Melbourne Airport for air travel.
Where to stay in Melbourne as a tourist?
The best areas to stay in Melbourne for tourists and first-timers are Melbourne CBD (Central Business District), Southbank, Docklands, Carlton, St. Kilda Beach, and Fitzroy. These are central, popular, and safe neighborhoods, offering plenty of things to do and see.
Melbourne CBD is the best overall area to stay in Melbourne for tourists, especially for first-timers due to its central location, easy access to public transportation, and a wide range of tourist amenities. Staying in puts you close to many iconic sights, restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.
As a young traveller, I would choose either the Southbank or the CBD because it’s close to all the attractions and nightlife, but if you prefer somewhere quieter, look into Docklands.
If this is your first visit the capital of Victotia state, I recommend to stay at least 3-5 days in Melbourne. This time will allow you to see the most famous attractions, enjoy food and wine, as well as get the sense of local culture and history.
| đź’– Best Area for First Timers: | Melbourne CBD |
| đź’Ž Best luxury hotel: | Park Hyatt Melbourne |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | Wyndham Hotel Melbourne |
| đź’° Best budget hotel: | ibis Melbourne Central |
Map of areas and neighborhoods in Melbourne:
Best areas to stay in Melbourne for tourists are:
1. Melbourne CBD
Staying in Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) is an excellent choice for tourists because it puts you right in the heart of the city and provides easy access to many of Melbourne’s top attractions.
Here are some reasons why staying in the Melbourne CBD is a popular option:
Convenience: The CBD is the central hub of Melbourne, making it extremely convenient for tourists. You’ll find an abundance of public transportation options, including trams, buses, and trains, making it easy to explore the entire city and its surrounding areas.
Major Attractions: Many of Melbourne’s most famous landmarks and attractions are located within or very close to the CBD. These include Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, the Melbourne Aquarium, Eureka Skydeck, and the State Library of Victoria, among others.
Shopping: The CBD is home to some of Melbourne’s best shopping streets, including Bourke Street Mall and Collins Street. You’ll find a wide range of retail stores, from high-end boutiques to department stores.
Dining and Nightlife: The CBD is teeming with restaurants, cafes, bars, and nightclubs. You’ll have countless options for dining and entertainment, whether you’re looking for fine dining, casual eats, or a vibrant nightlife scene.
Cultural Experiences: Melbourne’s cultural precinct, including the Arts Centre Melbourne and the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), is within walking distance from the CBD. You can easily explore the city’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.
Events and Festivals: Many major events and festivals in Melbourne take place in or near the CBD, such as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Melbourne Fashion Week, and various sports events at venues like the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Accommodation Variety: The CBD offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels.
Safety: The CBD is generally considered a safe area for tourists, with a strong police presence and well-lit streets.
Keep in mind that staying in the CBD can be more expensive than some other areas, but the convenience and access to amenities make it a popular choice for tourists who want to make the most of their time in the city.
Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, cultural experiences, or simply exploring the city, staying in the Melbourne CBD puts you in the center of the action.
Best places to stay in Melbourne CBD for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Park Hyatt Melbourne, 5-star family-friendly hotel, set in a super central location, within easy walking distance from popular shopping precinct. It has a car parking, spacious guest rooms, and on-site restaurants, and Park Club Health & Day Spa.
mid-range ($$): Wyndham Hotel Melbourne, 4-star hotel, one of the best places to stay in the heart of Melbourne for families and couples, located within easy walking distance from many cafes, restaurants and bars. It has a rooftop heated pool, private parking, and a library.
budget ($): ibis Melbourne Central, 3-star budget-friendly hotel on Lonsdale Street, central Melbourne, easy walk from Federation Square, Bourke Street Mall, and Marvel Stadium. It has an on-site Pretty Boy Italian steakhouse, children’s menu and buffet breakfast.
hostel ($): Flinders Backpackers, great base in Melbourne city center for backpackers and budget travelers, located right in the middle of the city, easy walk from Flinder Street Station and may major attractions.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN CBDif you are visiting Melbourne as a couple or family, you can check these articles:
2. Southbank
Staying in Southbank is another fantastic option for tourists, especially if you want to enjoy a mix of cultural attractions, waterfront views, and a lively atmosphere.
Southbank is located just across the Yarra River from the Melbourne CBD and offers a unique experience. Here are some reasons to consider staying in Southbank:
Scenic Riverfront Location: Southbank boasts stunning views of the Yarra River and the Melbourne skyline. The Southbank Promenade offers a picturesque waterfront area where you can take leisurely walks, enjoy outdoor dining, and even catch street performances.
Cultural Precinct: Southbank is home to some of Melbourne’s most renowned cultural institutions, including the Arts Centre Melbourne, National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), and Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA). You can explore art exhibitions, performances, and other cultural events in this area.
Crown Entertainment Complex: One of Melbourne’s largest entertainment complexes, Crown Casino, is located in Southbank. It features a casino, numerous restaurants, bars, nightclubs, a cinema, and luxury hotels. Even if you don’t gamble, there’s plenty to enjoy at Crown.
Dining Options: Southbank offers a diverse range of dining options, from upscale restaurants with river views to casual cafes and eateries. It’s an excellent place to savor a variety of cuisines.
Southbank Theatre: If you’re a fan of the performing arts, Southbank Theatre, part of the Arts Centre Melbourne, hosts a variety of plays, musicals, and theater productions.
Eureka Skydeck: You can’t miss the Eureka Tower, which features the Eureka Skydeck on its 88th floor. This observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
River Cruises: From Southbank, you can easily book river cruises that take you along the Yarra River, offering a different perspective of Melbourne’s landmarks.
Accessibility: Southbank is well-connected to the CBD by foot, and you can easily access the CBD’s attractions, shopping, and public transportation options.
Nightlife: Southbank has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars and clubs where you can enjoy live music, cocktails, and dancing.
Family-Friendly: Southbank is family-friendly, with attractions like the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel nearby.
While Southbank offers a slightly different vibe compared to the CBD, it provides an excellent blend of culture, entertainment, and scenic beauty. It’s a popular choice for tourists looking for a dynamic and enjoyable stay in Melbourne.
Best places to Stay in Melbourne Southbank for first-time visitors:
luxury ($$$): The Langham Melbourne, 5-star hotel, one of the best hotels in Melbourne for singles, couples, and families with children of all ages. Located on the banks of the Yarra featuring an indoor swimming pool with city views. It is short distance from Crown Casino, Bourke Street Mall, Flinders Street Station, and Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
mid-range ($$): Crown Promenade Melbourne, great family-friendly hotel, in the centre of Melbourne, offering an infinity pool, an outdoor terrace and a fitness center. It is directly linked to the Crown Casino and Entertainment Complex.
mid-range ($$): Ink Hotel Melbourne Southbank, 4-star hotel, well situated in Melbourne, short walk from Eureka Tower. It has air-conditioned rooms, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN SOUTHBANK3. Docklands
Docklands is a modern waterfront neighborhood in Melbourne that has been revitalized in recent years and has become a popular area for both residents and tourists.
Here are some reasons why you might consider staying in Docklands during your visit to Melbourne:
Waterfront Living: Docklands offers a unique waterfront experience, with many accommodations providing stunning views of the harbor and the city skyline. You can enjoy beautiful sunsets and a relaxing atmosphere along the waterfront promenade.
Proximity to CBD: While Docklands is slightly removed from the Melbourne CBD, it is still very accessible. You can walk to the CBD in about 15-20 minutes, or you can take advantage of the free City Circle Tram or other public transportation options to get to the city center quickly.
Docklands Attractions: The neighborhood itself has several attractions, including the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, Marvel Stadium (formerly Etihad Stadium), and a range of dining and shopping options at places like the District Docklands shopping precinct.
Modern Infrastructure: Docklands is known for its modern infrastructure and architectural designs. You’ll find many contemporary apartments, office buildings, and green spaces.
Harbor Cruises: You can easily access harbor cruises from Docklands, offering a different perspective of the city and the chance to explore Melbourne’s waterways.
Family-Friendly: Docklands has family-friendly attractions like the Melbourne Star, O’Brien Icehouse (an ice skating rink), and the Wonderland Junior indoor play center.
Biking and Walking Trails: The area has dedicated biking and walking paths, making it pleasant to explore on foot or by bike.
Quiet Atmosphere: Docklands tends to be quieter compared to the bustling CBD, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more relaxed environment.
Docklands offers a modern and comfortable stay in Melbourne, with a mix of business and leisure amenities. While it may not have the same historical charm as some other neighborhoods, it provides a unique and contemporary experience in the city.
Best places to stay in Melbourne in Docklands for frist-time tourists:
luxury ($$$): Melbourne Marriott Hotel Docklands, 5-star hotel, that has family rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, concierge service, a tour desk, a 24-hour front desk and currency exchange. It has daily breakfast, including Full English/Irish, American and vegetarian options.
mid-range ($$): Quest NewQuay, 4-star childre-friendly accommodation, located close to Marvel Stadium (formerly Etihad Stadium) and a short ride by Uber from Melbourne Conference Centre.
budget ($): Winston Apartments Docklands, this apartment has units equipped with a kitchen and seating area.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN DOCKLANDS4. East Melbourne
East Melbourne is a charming and historic neighborhood located just east of the Melbourne CBD. It’s a relatively small but highly sought-after area that offers a unique blend of tranquility, heritage architecture, and proximity to the city center.
Here are some reasons why you might consider staying in East Melbourne:
Proximity to the CBD: One of the primary advantages of staying in East Melbourne is its close proximity to the Melbourne CBD. You can easily walk to the city center in about 10-15 minutes, making it convenient for exploring the CBD’s attractions, shopping, and dining.
Peaceful Atmosphere: East Melbourne is known for its peaceful and residential feel, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a quieter and more relaxed environment. The tree-lined streets and historic buildings add to its charm.
Historical Architecture: The neighborhood is rich in heritage-listed buildings, including elegant Victorian-era homes and historic landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s a great place for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs.
Proximity to Parks: East Melbourne is bordered by Fitzroy Gardens, one of Melbourne’s most beautiful green spaces. You can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and even visit Captain Cook’s Cottage within the gardens.
MCG and Sports Precinct: If you’re a sports fan, East Melbourne is within walking distance of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and the sports precinct, where you can catch cricket and Australian rules football games, as well as take tours of the MCG.
Accessibility to Hospitals: East Melbourne is home to several major hospitals, including St. Vincent’s Hospital and the Epworth Freemasons Hospital. It’s a convenient location if you have medical appointments or need access to healthcare services.
East Melbourne is an ideal choice for travelers who appreciate historic neighborhoods, green spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere while still having easy access to the city’s attractions. It’s also a good option if you’re attending events at the MCG or nearby venues.
Best places to stay in East Melbourne:
luxury ($$$): Pullman Melbourne On the Park, 5-star children-friendly hotel, located in East Melbourne, offering views of the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground and Fitzroy Gardens.
mid-range ($$): Quest East Melbourne, 4-star accommodation, featuring a rooftop garden, which has panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline and park lands. It is located within walking distance to a diverse range of restaurants and cafes.
mid-range ($$): Quest Jolimont, 4-star kid-friendly accommodation, featuring modern self-contained apartments , pantry shopping services and an airport shuttle. Within walking distance from Rod Laver Arena and the beautiful Yarra River.
5. Carlton
Carlton is a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood located just north of the Melbourne CBD. It’s known for its Italian heritage, academic institutions, beautiful gardens, and diverse dining options.
Here are some reasons why you might consider staying in Carlton during your visit to Melbourne:
Italian Influence: Carlton has a strong Italian influence, and you’ll find a wide range of Italian restaurants, cafes, and delis. Lygon Street, in particular, is famous for its Italian dining options, including pizza and pasta.
Cultural Attractions: The areas is home to the Melbourne Museum, the Royal Exhibition Building (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the IMAX cinema. You can explore exhibitions, learn about Melbourne’s history, and enjoy educational experiences.
Academic Hub: Carlton is home to the University of Melbourne and RMIT University, making it a lively and intellectual neighborhood with a diverse student population. You’ll find a youthful and dynamic atmosphere, along with campus events and activities.
Carlton Gardens: The Carlton Gardens are adjacent to the Royal Exhibition Building and provide a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The gardens feature beautiful lawns, walking paths, fountains, and the Melbourne Museum’s stunning backdrop.
Shopping: Carlton offers boutique shopping experiences, especially around Lygon Street and nearby streets. You can find unique fashion boutiques, bookstores, and specialty stores.
Location: Carlton is within walking distance or a short tram ride to the Melbourne CBD, making it easy to explore the city’s central attractions and enjoy a more residential atmosphere.
Cafes and Bars: The neighborhood has a thriving cafe culture, with numerous cafes serving up excellent coffee and brunch options. There are also plenty of bars for evening entertainment.
Carlton is a great choice for travelers who appreciate a mix of educational institutions, cultural attractions, and a wide range of dining options, all while being close to the city center.
Best places to Stay in Melbourne in Carlton for first-timers:
- luxury ($$$): Zagame’s House, 5-star hotel, located in central Melbourne, close to Melbourne Central Station, State Library of Victoria, Melbourne City Conference Centre.
- mid-range ($$): The Eminence Apartments by CLLIX, great apartment, 9-minute walk from Melbourne Central Station, featuring accommodation with air conditioning and access to a garden. free WiFi and private parking is available on site.
6. St. Kilda Beach
St. Kilda is a popular beachside suburb, known for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful coastline, and a wide range of entertainment options. It’s a fantastic area for tourists who want to experience a mix of beach life, arts and culture, and a thriving nightlife scene.
Here are some reasons why you might consider staying in St. Kilda during your visit to Melbourne:
St. Kilda Beach: The main attraction in St. Kilda is its sandy beach along Port Phillip Bay. It’s a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. The palm-lined promenade, St. Kilda Pier, and the iconic St. Kilda Esplanade are popular spots for leisurely strolls.
Luna Park: St. Kilda is home to Luna Park, an historic amusement park with a distinctive entrance featuring a giant smiling face. It offers a range of thrilling rides, carnival games, and family-friendly entertainment.
Acland Street: Acland Street is the main commercial and dining strip in St. Kilda. It’s famous for its bakeries offering delicious cakes and pastries, along with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Fitzroy Street: Another popular dining and entertainment hub, Fitzroy Street offers a wide range of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. It’s a lively area for nightlife and dining.
St. Kilda Botanical Gardens: These lush gardens are a serene escape from the urban hustle and bustle. You can explore the gardens, have a picnic, or take a leisurely walk among the greenery.
Esplanade Market: Held every Sunday on the Esplanade, this open-air market features a variety of stalls selling art, crafts, jewelry, clothing, and more.
Live Music: St. Kilda has a vibrant live music scene with many venues hosting local and international bands and musicians. The Espy (Hotel Esplanade) is a well-known venue for live music.
St. Kilda Festival: If you’re visiting in February, you might catch the annual St. Kilda Festival, a free music and arts festival that attracts thousands of visitors.
Views from St. Kilda Pier: The pier offers excellent views of the Melbourne skyline, especially at sunset. You can also see the fairy penguins that inhabit the breakwater at night.
Best places to stay in St Kilda for first-time travelers:
- mid-range ($$): The Prince, 4-star boutique hotel, located in cosmopolitan St Kilda, just 5 minutes’ walk from the beach. It has has three on-site restaurants, free Wi-Fi and parking.
- budget ($): Tolarno Hotel, located close to Acland Street Galleries and the Grand Prix Track, as well as Sunday Esplanade Market, and Palais Theatre.
- luxury ($$$): Pullman Melbourne Albert Park, 5-star hotel, offering views of Albert Park Lake, a short stroll from St Kilda Road.
See Also:
7. Fitzroy
Fitzroy is a trendy and eclectic neighborhood located just north of the Melbourne CBD. It’s known for its artistic flair, bohemian atmosphere, and vibrant street life.
Fitzroy is a popular choice for tourists who want to experience Melbourne’s alternative culture, street art, boutique shopping, and unique dining options.
Here are some reasons why you might consider staying in Fitzroy during your visit to Melbourne:
Art and Street Art: Fitzroy is a hub for street art and graffiti, with many laneways adorned with colorful murals and artwork. You can explore the neighborhood on foot and discover stunning pieces of urban art.
Shopping: Brunswick Street and Smith Street are the main shopping thoroughfares in Fitzroy. You’ll find a diverse range of boutiques, vintage shops, record stores, and design stores, making it a haven for fashion enthusiasts and collectors.
Cafes and Restaurants: Fitzroy is renowned for its thriving cafe culture and culinary scene. The area boasts numerous cafes serving artisan coffee, as well as a wide range of restaurants offering diverse cuisines, including Italian, Thai, and Middle Eastern.
Nightlife: Fitzroy has a vibrant nightlife with a plethora of bars, pubs, and live music venues. You can enjoy live music performances, DJs, and a variety of cocktails and craft beers.
Fitzroy Gardens: These gardens, though smaller than the more famous Fitzroy Gardens in the CBD, provide a peaceful green space with walking paths and a playground.
Proximity to the CBD: Fitzroy is within walking distance of the Melbourne CBD, making it easy to explore the central attractions, shopping districts, and cultural institutions.
Best places to stay in Fitzroy for first-timers:
budget ($): Comfort Apartments Royal Gardens, great 2-star family-friendly hotel, offering spacious self-catering accommodation, located within walking distance of Melbourne city centre, The Royal Exhibition Buildings, Imax Theatre, Melbourne Museum, and St Vincents Hospital.
mid-range ($$): Tyrian Serviced Apartments Fitzroy, 4-star property, offers self-catering accommodation and family rooms with a balcony, near Melbourne Museum and Regent Theatre.
mid-range ($$): Melbourne Metropole Central, 4-star hotel, featuring studios, suites,1 and 2 bedroom apartments. Located in the cultural hub of Fitzroy on Brunswick Street which offers a diverse range of cafes, restaurants, bars, galleries and unique stores.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN FITZROY8. Richmond
Located 3km south-east from Melbourne’s City Center, the inner-city suburb of Richmond is a fantastic spot to stay. Richmond is an excellent location that is situated next to Melbourne Cricket Ground and just a stone’s throw from Melbourne’s beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens.
Melbourne Cricket Ground is home to the Richmond Tigers, which is the most popular Australian Rules Football team in the city. If you’re in Melbourne, you should try to watch them play at the MCG.
Apart from MCG, nearby you can check out The Owl and Cat Theatre near Richmon station and Mountain Goat Brewery.
Richmond is home to many restaurants, bars, pubs, and cafes. You will love to eat Vietnamese food here, especially on Victoria Street. There are modern Vietnamese at Pho Hung Vuong 2, Hanoi Hannah New Quarter, as well as Middle Eastern cafe in Swan Street.
If you like shopping, you will find Bridge Road with many shops offering afforable vintage fashion.
Apart from football and food, Richmond has some good place to spot murals and graffiti including the train tracks around Richmond Train Station and streets off of Swan Street.
Staying in Richmond accommodation can be slightly cheaper than the CBD, and you’re still next to most of the top attractions.
Stay in Richmond if you want to stay somewhere quieter, yet still centrally located; you are planning to go to the MCG, you are watching the Australian open;
Best places to Stay in Richmond:
- mid-range ($$): Amora Hotel Riverwalk
- mid-range ($$): Adara Richmond
- budget ($): Lanbruk Richmond Hill
9. Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach is one of Melbourne’s most popular Instagram spots and is home to some of Melbourne’s most scenic views. Brighton Beach is half an hour away from the CBD on the Sandringham train line.
The most popular thing to do in Brighton is walking along Brighton Beach, which is famous for the colourful bathing boxes that are a photographer’s dream. Brighton Bathing Boxes are located on Dendy Street Beach.
Brighton Beach has clean and calm water. It attracts many people in summer for swimming, sunbathing, kite surfing and paragliding. There are parklands around that beach that you can do a picnic with your friend and family.
Apart from the beach, Brighton is good place to do shopping. There is a Dendy Plaza Shopping Centre, many cafes, and restaurants, on the Church Street, Bay Street in North Brighton, and Martin Street near Gardenvale station.
Other places of interest are the Brighton Town Hall Precinct, the Billilla Historic Homestead, Kamesburgh mansion, and Elsternwick Park.
Brighton Beach is one of Melbourne’s most affluent suburbs, and accommodation varies from cheap hippie hostels to expensive luxury hotels. Brighton Beach generally caters for high-end accommodation.
Stay in Brighton Beach if you want to be away from the hustle and bustle; you want to be next to the picturesque Brighton Beach; you don’t mind staying in a quiet area.
Best places to Stay in Brighton Beach for first-time tourists:
- mid-range ($$): Quest Brighton on the Bay
- mid-range ($$): Caroline Serviced Apartments Brighton
- budget ($): Brighton Bay Apartments
10. South Yarra
Located on the Yarra river, 4 km south-east of CBD, South Yarra is the most affluent inner-city suburb of Melbourne. It’s also close to Richmond to the north, Prahran, Toorak, and Windsor. It’s easily reachable by South Yarra Station, just 2 stops to the city.
South Yarra is known for extensive retail options; this is a shopping paradise. South Yarra has a vast array of shops that includes everything from quirky fashion shops to expensive high-end stores.
Main streets in South Yarra are Chapel Street, Toorak Road, and Commercial Road. Chapel Street is home to Como Centre and Vogue Shopping Plaza. Commercial Road is home to Pran Central Shopping Centre and Prahran Market. Full of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops along these areas.
Prahran Market is extremely popular with the locals and is located within South Yarra. It’s possible to find great hotel deals in South Yarra, but there are fewer hotels than other spots in the city.
But it’s not just shops in South Yarra; there is a brilliant art gallery called the Gould Gallerie. This gallery exhibits fantastic pieces from local artists in the 19th and 20th century; this is another excellent art gallery.
You can relax at one of its park along the Yarra River and Fawkner Park. The parks have playgrounds and free BBQ areas for picnic. If you want to walk, cycle, the Capital City Trail is great place to check out.
One thing that you can do is take a river cruise along the Yarra River and enjoy some iconic landmarks fromt the water including the Royal Botanic Gardens, Federation Square, Swanston Street bridge, and Crown Casino.
Stay in South Yarra if you love to go shopping, you want to be close to St. Kilda, you want to be next to Prahran, you don’t mind being outside the CBD, you don’t mind a quieter area.
Best places to Stay in Melbourne in South Yarra:
luxury ($$$): The Como Melbourne – MGallery by Sofitel, great 5-star hotel, situated on the popular Chapel Street in South Yarra. Easy access to the restaurants, boutiques and all attractions located in the South Yarra, Prahran and Toorak area. The tram stop nearby, taking you to Melbourne CBD, the MCG, Melbourne Park Tennis Centre, The Arts Centre.
mid-range ($$): Oaks Melbourne South Yarra Suites, 4-star accommodation, 2 minutes’ walk from South Yarra Train Station and 10 minutes’ walk from Chapel Street.
budget ($): SoYa Apartment Hotel, conveniently base to explore the city and its surrounds. All apartments feature a fully equipped kitchen, short walk from South Yarra Train Station, Yarra River, and Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN SOUTH YARRA11. Footscray
Melbourne is one of the world’s most multicultural cities, and you will feel this when you walk around the city. The suburb of Footscray is the centre of Melbourne’s culture scene with a vast array of different nationalities located here.
The level of international cuisine here is fantastic, with a diverse range of food from India, Greece, China, Vietnam, the UK, Africa, and Italy. You can enjoy beef pho at a Vietnamese noodle house, Indian food near Victoria University, or traditional Ethiopian food at Nicholson Street Mall.
if you visit in Feb, you can have a chance to join the Chinese New Year and Tet Lunar Year Festival. For shopping, you can head to Footscray Market. Little Saigon Market, and The Highpoint Shopping centre.
The main attraction in Footscray is the Footscray Market. It is an excellent market with food from all over the planet, and you can find some exceptionally exotic food here. There are wide range of fresh local produce, seafood, meat and Asian ingredients. it is easily reachable by train, bus or tram, and open from Tuesday to Saturday.
Footscray is also home to Australia’s largest Taoist temple, Heavenly Queen Temple, on Hopkins Street, where you can find the Golden Heavenly Queen of Mazu.
If you love art, there are also many places to see including Footscray Community Arts Centre, on Maribyrnong River’s banks. Meanwhile, Footscray Park, near Flemington Racecourse, host the St Jerome’s Laneway Festival each year. Other places for art are the Snuff Puppets and Trocadero Art Space.
Footscray is served by Footscray train station which offer easy access to Melbourne CBD, Sunbury, Werribee and Williamstow. There are plenty of bus routes in this neighborhoods too.
12. Collingwood
Collingwood along with Fitzroy is one of the hippest areas in Melbourne. Located 3 km northeast of Melbourne CBD, Collingwood is bordered by Smith Street, Alexandra Parade, Hoddle Street, and Victoria Parade. Smith Street is Collingwood’s main thoroughfare, one of Melbourne’s major nightlife and retail strips.
You will find plenty of restaurants ranging from casual cafes to high-end dining and covering a range of cuisines. The nightlife is lively with many bars, pubs, clubs, and live music venues.
Collingwood’s also home to Melbourne’s second-largest LGBTQ community, with a few gay clubs and bars in the area.
There are numerous vintage clothing stores and bike shops, it is a local haven for hipsters.
You can take a ride on the three old-school train carriages atop a backstreet building, Easey’s, and grab burgers, beer, and cafes.
If you love art, check out the Lamington Drive, Backwoods Gallery which is a street-art HQ and contemporary gallery, and Australian Galleries and Ochre. If you want to look at the coffee production process with roastery tours and barista lessons, head to Aunty Peg’s.
Bar hoppers can check out the Le Bon Ton, The Mill Brewery, Molly Rose, Stomping Ground brewery and beer hall, or Fixation’s tasting room, The Incubator.
🎬 Check out my virtual tour about the best places to stay in Melbourne:
Where should I stay in Melbourne for the first time?
Melbourne CBD is the best area to stay in Melbourne for first-timers due to its prime location. If you stay here, you will be located in the middle of action, within walking distance to many tourist attractions, as well as many shopping, dining, nightlife venues.
What is the best part of Melbourne to stay in?
Melbourne CBD, Southbank, Docklands, St. Kilda Beach, are the best areas to stay in Melbourne because they are very popular for tourist and they offer a wide range of accommodation options, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops.
Where to stay in Melbourne with family?
Melbourne CBD, Southbank, and St. Kilda are great areas for family because they has a central locaton and they offers an incredible selection of family activities for all ages.
See More:
- Best Hostels in Melbourne for Solo Travelers
- 25 Best things to do in Melbourne
- Best Hotels in Melbourne CBD
- How Many Days in Melbourne is Enough
- 2 Days in Melbourne Itinerary
- Best areas to Stay in Sydney
- Best areas to stay in Perth
- Best areas to Stay in Brisbane
- How Many Days in Brisbane is Enough
- Best areas to Stay in Cairns
- Top 37 Best Hotels in Perth Australia
- Best areas to Stay in Adelaide
- Best areas to Stay in Gold Coast
In conclusion, Melbourne CBD, Southbank, Docklands, Carlton, St. Kilda Beach, and Fitzroy are the best places to stay in Melbourne for tourists, both families, couples, and solo travelers, due to their popularity, safety, easy access to public transportation and tourists amenities.
Overall, Melbourne CBD is the best area to stay in Melbourne for first-timers due to its central location, excellent transportation, and a wide range of accommodations for all budgets. If you stay here, you’ll have easiest access to attractions, restaurants, bars, and shops.
So nice to see another review, how are you ?????
Thank you for you nice comment. Hope you enjoy it