Where to stay in Melbourne

The heart of the action, Melbourne City Centre (commonly known as the CBD), is bustling with activity, with an array of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions at every turn. Accommodations range from luxury hotels to budget hostels, suiting varied travel budgets. The convenience of staying in the CBD is paired with the usual pitfalls of any major city’s center: noise, crowdedness, and, at times, a less personable atmosphere.

Southbank is a bustling waterfront hub known for the iconic Yarra River promenade, filled with upscale dining spots and public art. It boasts the Crown Casino complex and is a stone's throw from the arts precinct, where the Arts Centre and the National Gallery of Victoria are located. However, it can feel crowded and tourist-centric, which isn't everyone's cup of tea. The area swings towards being upmarket, which can mean higher accommodation costs.

Docklands is a modern waterfront area known for its sleek apartment towers and corporate offices. It offers a range of dining and shopping options but lacks the character and soul found in Melbourne's older neighborhoods. Despite its picturesque location on the harbor, it can feel empty after business hours and on weekends, making it ideal for business travel but less so for tourists seeking the vibrancy of city life.

St Kilda is known for its beachfront, palm-lined boardwalk and historic Luna Park amusement center. It has a thriving bar and live music scene, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and tourists alike. While St Kilda has a gritty charm, it is also a locality where homelessness is more visible, and at night, pockets of the suburb can feel less safe. The beachside vibe is a major draw, though the area can be prone to windy conditions.

Fitzroy, celebrated as Melbourne's epicenter of hipster culture, is brimming with vintage shops, eclectic bars, and vegan eateries. This bohemian neighborhood has a gritty charm and is a stone's throw away from the city's heart. However, Fitzroy's popularity can sometimes translate to crowded streets and higher noise levels, especially on weekends. It's an excellent area for those who enjoy vibrant street art, live music, and an alternative lifestyle.

Brunswick is a culturally diverse neighborhood known for its live music venues, multicultural dining options, and indie shops. It fosters a strong sense of community and creative spirit. While Brunswick is a bit removed from the city center, it's well-serviced by public transport. It's more laid back than Fitzroy but can seem less polished and a bit rough around the edges to some visitors.

Richmond is famous for its Vietnamese community and the go-to for anyone craving authentic phở or bánh mì, centered around Victoria Street, also known as 'Little Saigon.' It's an eclectic area with a convergence of sports fans during nearby Melbourne Cricket Ground events. Richmond is lively but can suffer from traffic and late-night noise in entertainment quarters. It's a mix of gritty and trendy, with factory outlets and diverse dining options.

South Yarra is a glamorous locale known for Chapel Street, a haven for fashionistas and fans of high-end shopping and hip cafes. It has a thriving nightlife but maintains a feeling of sophistication. Accommodation can be pricey, and for some visitors, the emphasis on style over substance may be off-putting. However, its proximity to the Royal Botanic Gardens offers an escape to one of Melbourne’s most serene spots.

Collingwood, close to Fitzroy, harbors a similarly creative and alternative vibe with gallery spaces, offbeat bars, and experimental restaurants. The area is a mecca for those interested in Melbourne's contemporary art scene. However, despite its rapid gentrification, it retains an industrial look with gritty elements and can seem a bit rough. Nightlife is robust, but some may find it too boisterous.

East Melbourne is a quieter, more refined area known for its historic architecture and beautiful gardens. This prestigious suburb offers a sophisticated retreat from the bustle of the city, making it appealing to those seeking tranquility. Accommodation is more upscale, which may translate to a higher price tag. Its serene streets can also feel too quiet for those looking for nighttime entertainment.

Carlton is a culturally rich neighborhood famous for its Victorian architecture and as the home of the University of Melbourne. Lygon Street is the heart of Melbourne's Italian community and is the place to go for fantastic Italian cuisine. Carlton offers a mix of student vibes and European charm, but it can become noisy, especially on weekends. It blends a sector of education and leisure, embracing a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.

South Melbourne is distinguished by its historic Victorian terrace houses, markets, and the bustling Clarendon Street shopping precinct. The South Melbourne Market is a highlight, offering fresh produce and unique wares. While it is predominantly residential and quieter in the evenings, congestion can occur, especially on market days. South Melbourne provides a local experience with easy access to the city center.

Carlton North is a leafy, quieter suburb featuring the tranquil Edinburgh Gardens and a series of terrace houses. It's a neighborhood favored by academics and professionals, with a calm ambiance and an array of boutique shops along Rathdowne Street. While it offers a genteel Melbourne experience, visitors looking for nightlife and tourist attractions might find it too subdued. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat close to the city's bustling areas.

West Melbourne is an evolving area featuring a mix of industrial development and residential pockets. It’s quieter than the city center but still within easy reach of attractions. Recent gentrification has seen an increase in trendy cafes and boutiques here. Its transitional nature means parts of the area can feel underdeveloped, and amenities can be spread out.

Cremorne is a small pocket within Richmond, offering an offbeat and somewhat industrial vibe. Known for its growing tech scene and proximity to the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, it's an ideal base for those wanting to be near the city but in a more low-key environment. Nightlife is limited, and the area can feel deserted at night; however, it provides a convenient location for business travelers due to nearby offices and start-up hubs.

Footscray is an up-and-coming suburb with a rich multicultural atmosphere, celebrated for its international food scene, particularly its Vietnamese cuisine. Less polished than other areas, it's currently transforming with a growing arts scene. However, some may view it as less safe at night compared to other suburbs. Its affordable accommodation options are a draw for budget travelers.