Top reasons to visit Melbourne
- Diverse Attractions: Melbourne offers a plethora of attractions, from urban parks to the Melbourne Museum, catering to all interests.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Experience a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues that showcase the city's cultural diversity.
- Eclectic Neighbourhoods: Explore unique neighbourhoods, each with its own character, providing a rich cultural tapestry.
- World-Class Shopping: Enjoy an array of shopping options, from bustling centres to boutique stores.
- Exceptional Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in Melbourne
Discover a diverse selection of accommodation options in Melbourne, ranging from elegant hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, all designed to meet the needs of families, business travellers, and LGBTQIA visitors. Whether you seek a luxurious stay at W Melbourne or a quaint retreat in the heart of the city, Melbourne's hotels promise a welcoming experience for all. Enjoy the vibrant culture and attractions while indulging in exceptional hospitality throughout your visit.
- Atlantis Hotel, Melbourne: This 4-star gem, rated 8.8 out of 10 by guests, offers a comfortable and professional atmosphere, making it ideal for business travellers. Conveniently situated in Melbourne, Atlantis Hotel features well-appointed rooms that cater to the needs of professionals seeking a productive stay. Amenities include a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring that your work commitments are met without compromise. The hotel’s modern design and attentive service enhance your overall experience, providing a tranquil retreat after a day of business activities.
- Together Co-Living: With a 3.5-star rating, Together Co-Living is a unique accommodation option that combines a family-friendly environment with a nature-themed focus. Situated in Melbourne, this property is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. The hotel offers amenities tailored for children, including an arcade game room and a children’s pool, ensuring that younger guests are entertained. Outdoor facilities, like barbeque grills, encourage social interactions and enjoyment of the natural surroundings, while wellness offerings create a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation, making it suitable for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
- The Victoria Hotel Melbourne: This 3.5-star hotel, also boasting a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, is strategically located in the heart of Melbourne, making it a prime choice for business travellers. The Victoria Hotel combines classic charm with modern amenities, featuring spacious, comfortable rooms equipped with necessary conveniences. Guests can enjoy facilities such as a restaurant, bar, and fitness centre, all designed to provide a seamless experience. The hotel’s central location allows easy access to Melbourne’s vibrant culture, shopping, and dining, making it a practical choice for those on business trips.
Where to stay in Melbourne
Melbourne is a vibrant metropolis offering an array of experiences for every traveller. Explore the city's eclectic neighbourhoods, indulge in world-class shopping, and savour the vibrant nightlife. Enjoy stunning city views and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere that makes Melbourne ideal for families and business visitors alike. Just a short trip away, the surrounding regions present relaxing retreats perfect for unwinding after a day of urban exploration.
- Melbourne Central Business District: The vibrant heart of Melbourne, the Central Business District (CBD) is where urban life thrives. This bustling neighbourhood is characterised by its impressive skyline, historic buildings, and a variety of shopping experiences from high-end boutiques to local markets. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities, including exploring the famous laneways filled with street art, dining at world-class restaurants, and catching a game at major sports venues. The CBD is a hub for family, business, and city-themed experiences, making it a must-visit for tourists year-round, especially during peak seasons in March and December to January.
- Southbank: Nestled along the Yarra River, Southbank is a dynamic suburb known for its stunning views and artistic flair. This area is home to the renowned Arts Centre Melbourne and the bustling Southbank Promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants. Ideal for family outings and business trips alike, Southbank offers a diverse range of activities, including shopping at the Crown Casino complex and enjoying live performances. With visitor numbers peaking in April, July, and September, Southbank is a lively destination that blends cultural experiences with scenic riverfront walks.
- Mornington Peninsula: A short drive from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is a picturesque haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known for its beautiful beaches, charming seaside towns, and vineyards, this region offers a myriad of adventure opportunities, from golfing to spa retreats. Visitors can explore the stunning national parks, relax on family-friendly beaches, and indulge in local gourmet produce. With peak travel times in April and December to January, Mornington Peninsula is perfect for those seeking a scenic escape and an outdoor adventure.
Things to do in Melbourne
Shopping
In Melbourne, visit the bustling Emporium for a mix of fashion and lifestyle brands. For unique souvenirs, check out the Queen Victoria Market, where local artisans showcase their crafts. The Melbourne Central shopping centre offers a variety of shops and eateries in a vibrant atmosphere.
Recreation
At the Como Shambhala Urban Escape in South Yarra, indulge in holistic treatments and yoga classes designed to revitalise your body and mind. Nearby, the Gaia Retreat & Spa offers serene surroundings, with tailored wellness programs and nourishing cuisine to enhance your relaxation journey.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of racing at Calder Park Raceway, where you can immerse yourself in high-speed motorsport excitement. For a more serene adventure, the Eagle Skylift Arthurs Seat offers breathtaking views as you glide above lush landscapes in a cable car, perfect for families seeking outdoor fun.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Rooftop Bar on Swanston Street, where you can enjoy stunning city views and refreshing cocktails. For a lively atmosphere, visit The Night Cat in Fitzroy, known for its eclectic live music and dance floor, attracting a diverse crowd.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Melbourne
Melbourne offers numerous ways to save during your visit. Take advantage of free attractions like Collins Street and the University of Melbourne. For affordable transport, utilise the trams, buses, and trains, with Mondays being the most economical day for accommodation. Consider planning your trip between May and July, when prices are generally lower, avoiding the peak months of January, March, and November. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options, and save more by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for the best deals.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Melbourne are May to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January, March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Melbourne is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Melbourne is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most economical prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your Melbourne hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Melbourne
Melbourne is an excellent destination for families, business travellers, and those seeking a vibrant city experience. With attractions such as urban parks, beaches, and the Melbourne Museum, there's something for everyone. Explore the city's highlights, including Melbourne Central and various visitor attractions, to fully discover the charm of this remarkable city and its surroundings.
- Melbourne Park: Experience the electric atmosphere of Melbourne Park, home to major sports events including tennis and Australian Rules Football. The stadium's modern facilities and vibrant atmosphere make it a fantastic place to catch a game or concert, immersing you in the local sporting culture.
- Albert Park Lake: Enjoy a leisurely day at Albert Park Lake, where scenic views and serene surroundings create a romantic retreat. With opportunities for picnicking, cycling, and walking along the beach-like shores, it is a lovely spot to unwind amid nature.
- Fed Square: Discover the contemporary charm of Fed Square, a lively hub of art, culture, and dining. The striking architecture and bustling atmosphere make it an ideal place to explore galleries, enjoy local cuisine, or simply soak in the vibrant city vibes.
Best time to go to Melbourne
The best time to visit Melbourne is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Melbourne
Flying into MELbourne is convenient with two major airports. Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) is situated 19km from the city centre, with excellent hotels nearby such as The Langham and Stamford Plaza, both rated 5 stars. Transportation services from these hotels include transfers and shuttles. Avalon Airport (AVV) is located 48km away, offering options like the Bayside Geelong Hotel & Apartments, a 4.5-star establishment. Lastly, Bendigo Airport (BXG), 132km from Melbourne, provides access to hotels like Quest Bendigo Central, rated 4.5 stars. Each airport is well-connected, ensuring a smooth journey to your accommodation.