The best hotels for your staycation in Melbourne

This heritage hotel in the theatre district has reopened following a stunning refurbishment. 370 rooms have been given a glow-up with natural light-flooded spaces, calming muted hues and chic timber interiors. Visit the new palm tree–lined rooftop terrace to lounge poolside. Then peruse the pre-theatre dining menu at Bossley.

This luxe rooftop spot takes glamping to the next level. Check-in with your smartphone to one of six luxury Airstream caravans. Perched atop a car-park rooftop, the sleek vans have everything you’d wish for. Fitted out with a queen bed, heating and a ready-to-raid minibar, not to mention a pretty spectacular view. Happy glamping.

Find a heated rooftop pool, sleek modern design and city views at Shadow Play Melbourne by Peppers. These serviced apartments conveniently come with a fully-equipped kitchen and espresso machine for that early-morning caffeine hit. If you're looking for the best of the best city views, book one of the brand new penthouse suites on level 45 featuring floor-to-ceiling windows. Dine at Edwin Wine Bar and Cellar for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Or head up to the Cloakroom Bar on level 46 and enjoy a signature cocktail.

It’s all about the location at DoubleTree by Hilton. Opposite Flinders Street Station and moments from Fed Square, there’s a choice of river or city skyline views. Lounge in the Melbourne-inspired industrial-chic decor, showcasing local design and European features. For all the foodies out there, take a short walk to iconic laneways like Degraves for gelato, coffee, cheap eats and more.

Melbourne's first chocolate-inspired hotel just made your staycation even sweeter. Don't skip the complimentary chocolate hour. It's a free cocoa feast featuring ice cream parfait, chocolate cocktails and a rotating roster of special menu items. After-hours, take a dip in the neon-lit pool. Sink into a poolside chaise lounge with a good book, or robe up and recharge in the dry cedar sauna room. Head to Miss Mi Bar and tuck into the daily buffet breakfast.

The city’s first ‘luxury lifestyle hotel’ has taken up residence in Collins Arch at W Melbourne. Behind the Flinders Lane entry, bold pops of colour reflect the city’s laneway culture. And your pug or poodle is welcome to share your room or suite for the night. With three restaurants and two bars on-site, you can leave the lanes for later. Try innovative dining at Lollo, basement spot Curious or poolside drinks with views on level 14. You can even do Pilates poolside!

Some of Melbourne's most dazzling views are waiting for you at the Radisson's rooftop spa. Keep the bliss going downstairs with the ultimate staycation package. Swing by HQ's on William to enjoy a complimentary drink on arrival before spending the night in a deluxe room. A late checkout means you can linger over a lavish breakfast spread, included in your stay.

The luxury is five-star at the Langham, a Southbank byword for the high life since 1992. Each room has a Yarra or city skyline view, framed by traditional plush fabrics. Afternoon tea is a must-do at Aria, followed by chilled-out pampering at Chuan Spa. And who can resist the views from that 15-metre indoor-outdoor pool. Travelling with little ones? The Playtime with Paddington room is decked out in whimsical Paddington touches.

Melbourne’s iconic laneways are filled with hidden treasures, as is Laneways by Ovolo. Filled with bespoke art, Ovolo’s rooms are sleek and spacious. And like our quirky laneways, this hotel is small but big on personality. The hotel recently reopened with a new look inspired by '80s Memphis design. There's even a pooch-friendly package where your precious pup will receive a fun little toy, a fancy meal and a super fluffy dog bed.

A chic new hotel is breathing creativity into West Side Place. The walls of The Dorsett Melbourne are brought to life with curated pieces from local artists. Glimpse city scenes captured in black and white photography. And spot the Diva Garden, a vibrant and playful large-scale installation. Unwind with a soak in the heated indoor pool and spa. Then cap off your night with cocktails in the gilded surrounds of the Jin Bar.

Indulge in a romantic staycation in the Paris-end at the stunning Sofitel Melbourne on Collins. The luxury hotel is imbued with a French flair. Think Parisian-chic styling and creative European cuisine. Be sure to swing by the glorious Atrium on 35 for a drink to start your night out.

It may be one Australia’s biggest hotels, but Crown Metropol has all the character of a boutique hotel. With modern design and playful sculptures, this sleek hotel feels right at home among the theatres and galleries of Southbank. Bring your partner or bestie for a luxe staycation. Sip poolside cocktails while enjoying panoramic city views from the 27th floor.

Take a dip in the rooftop plunge pool beneath a soaring vertical garden at Voco Melbourne Central. Stunning views and sustainability is at Voco's core. With bedding made from recycled materials and windows that open in every room to reduce energy consumption. Start your day with a buffet breakfast at Blacksmith Bar and Grill then head up to the seventh floor terrace to find a mini oasis with skyline views.

In the 80 Collins precinct, Next Hotel promises a reimagined hotel experience. And it delivers, with eclectic decor, intriguing artworks and sophisticated understated design. Go all out and book the Manhattan-inspired Club Room. It features a super king bed, Dyson hair tools, complimentary access to The Club lounge and more. Minibar treats include house-aged spirits and cocktails. Dining is another indulgence, with Sicilian and Hong Kong heritage merging at La Madonna restaurant and bar.

Nestled in the vibrant South Wharf precinct, Pan Pacific Melbourne is a luxury 5-star hotel. Its spacious rooms offer comfort, style, and breathtaking views of the city skyline, Yarra River, or Port Phillip Bay. Pacific Club guests can access a range of benefits, including a full buffet breakfast, all-day refreshments, evening drinks, and canapés. Nearby world-class retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment are accessible by foot, tram, or even boat.

The grit and glamour of concrete and velvet come together at the Lancemore. In the lobby, dramatic lighting hints at the surrounding theatre district. And the guest-only rooftop terrace with fire pit and daybeds promises privacy. This boutique newcomer is impeccably located, poised between Chinatown and the top of Bourke Street. Special packages combining accommodation, happy hour drinks, free 24 hour parking and rooftop terrace access are a no brainer.

Rich in character and 1920s glamour, this boutique hotel has reopened its doors following a two-year refurbishment. From the lavish two-storey loft suites to the sparkling chandeliers, the Art Deco styling of The Royce fits the heritage-listed building to a T. Start your day right with a Champagne breakfast among the botanicals in The Conservatory. Then meet for pre-dinner cocktails in the Gatsby-era Showroom Bar.

Slip into a real-life fairytale with a staycation fit for royalty. The Westin is a little slice of luxury on Collins Street. Modern decor is peppered with vintage flourishes. Think grand sweeping staircases and private Juliet balconies. It's only right to head downstairs for a decadent high tea in the Lobby Lounge. Enjoy three tiers of sweet and savoury bites. And level it up with a glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne for the premium experience.

Melbourne’s new Hilton has revamped the 1931 Equity Chambers building. You’ll notice the crafty mix of heritage and contemporary the moment you enter. The vibrant entrance mural by Juddy Roller graffiti artist Kitt Bennett sets the tone. Inside, public spaces like the opulent Douglas Club lounge bar make the most of the Art Deco drama.

Settle into your sleek waterside digs at The Sebel Docklands. Families are well catered for here (and pets too!), with spacious two-bedroom apartments available. Or choose a room with a balcony overlooking the harbour for stunning views. Hop between the indoor pool and rooftop tennis court or head out to explore Docklands.

The first Australian outpost of Singapore’s Quincy Hotel chain has opened its doors, adding a dash of colour and zest to Melbourne. The high-end luxe hotel is ideally located in Flinders Lane. Head up to The Q Bar for hawker snacks and cocktails by the rooftop pool. Or try the Thai cuisine at Salted Egg. Book a package to save on your stay, with added extras like free breakfast and mini bar treats!

Famous for its glass-bottomed pool above Flinders Lane, the Adelphi Hotel has found a sweet spot as a boutique laneway hotel. The fit-out is glam with an elegant Art Deco touch and meticulous attention to detail. Once you've settled in it's time to raid the minibar. It's packed with chocolate and lollies to fuel your city wanderings.

With geometric patterns, sharp colours and luxe, industrial finishes, QT Melbourne oozes sophistication. Expect baths surrounded by curtains, black tiled walls and neon lights. Kick back with a G&T in the glamorous rooftop bar. Then retreat to the contemporary bar and grill for a steak. There's a theatrical open kitchen so you can watch the chef artfully prepare your meal.

You only need to step inside the Windsor to experience Melbourne history. Established in 1883, it’s Australia’s last grand Victorian-era hotel. Sumptuous afternoon teas are still very much the done thing. Step back outside and explore the city’s other impressive heritage buildings. The magnificent state Parliament House is opposite.

Melbourne is the world’s live-music capital. Naturally, we also have our very own music-themed boutique hotel: the Jazz Corner. Each spacious room features classic jazz album artwork. Plus private balconies and a fully equipped kitchen. Spend your day strolling through the city, then dive into the buzzing music scene come nightfall.

Make a booking for the stunning Grand Hyatt Melbourne located right in the heart of the city. It’s close to all the good stuff – fine dining, theatres, galleries and more. The rooms are pretty swanky too. Think Italian marble bathrooms, king-sized beds and beautiful views of the skyline or Yarra River. And what’s a staycation in Melbourne without good food and wine? Have a meal at Collins Kitchen and cocktails at Ru-Co Bar. Or treat yourself to Club Access and enjoy drinks and canapes on the 31st floor.

Your four-legged pooch pal can join your staycation at Carlton’s glam Zagame’s House. Pups receive a fur-baby treat bag of goodies, and there’s even an in-room doggy dining menu. Oh, and accommodation for humans is top-notch too. Mod-cons include selfie mirrors with three different settings and a very well-stocked minibar. Paws down, we think you’ll love it. Find more dog-friendly hotels in Melbourne.

Your home away from home can be found in these cosy serviced apartments. Each one comes with separate living areas, a kitchen and dining area so you can stretch out and get comfortable. Located at the 'Paris End' of Collins Street you're right in the heart of all the action. The iconic Regent Theatre is just across the street so make sure you hit up a musical during your stay.