The best hotels for your Christmas staycation in Melbourne

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. Or sprinkle a little cheer with a festive stay in one of the new Christmas-themed loft rooms. Decked out in Christmas trees, candy canes, stockings and baubles, the room even has a letterbox where kids can post a letter to Santa. The 'candy cane lane' package comes with buffet breakfast for two, free parking and more. Call the hotel on 03 9654 6888 or book via the website.

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.

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.

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. Head up to the seventh floor terrace to find a mini oasis and look out over the sparkling city skyline.

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.

In the 80 Collins precinct, Next Hotel promises a reimagined hotel experience. And it delivers, with eclectic decor, intriguing artworks and sophisticated understated design. 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.

Melbourne's first chocolate-inspired hotel just made your winter 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.

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. Coming into the city for New Year's Eve? Score free brekkie, 25 per cent off at Luci and free parking. Just select "more prices available" and choose the city sleepover package to book.

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 drink to start your night out.

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. Make a pit stop for elevated pub grub and craft beers on tap at Amphlett House. 

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. If you're planning to catch The Friends Experience while it's at District Docklands, book a package. It comes with an overnight stay, four passes to the exhibition, a bottle of bubbly and free parking.

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.

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.

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. Those signature king-size beds and in-room cocktail minibars are totally splurge-worthy. 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!

The grit and glamour of concrete and velvet come together at the Lancemore. In the lobby, dramatic lighting hints at the surrounding theatre district. Upstairs, the 113 spacious art-filled rooms offer a luxurious retreat. 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, high tea and pre-theatre dining offers the quintessential Melbourne experience.

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. Bathrooms come with a generous marble bath, bathrobes, slippers and toiletries. 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.

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. Enjoy up to 30% savings on stays. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, a separate walk-in shower, and a bathroom featuring quality amenities. The club lounge is one of Melbourne's finest, offering exclusive privacy. Pacific Club guests can access a range of benefits, including a full buffet breakfast, all-day refreshments, evening drinks, and canapés. Indulge in a Christmas-themed High Tea for $79pp. Nearby world-class retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment are accessible by foot, tram, or even boat.

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.

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.

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.

Famous for its glass-bottomed pool above Flinders Lane, the Adelphi Hotel has found a sweet spot as the ‘world’s premier dessert hotel’. The fit-out is glam with an elegant Art Deco touch and meticulous attention to detail. Decor has a dessert-themed vibe, and there are lolly jars in every room. If it’s a weekend, be sure to head downstairs to Om Nom for high tea. Or stop by for cheese platters and extravagant cocktails Wednesday through Saturday evenings.

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.

The first Australian outpost of Singapore’s Quincy Hotel chain opened its doors in May, 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!

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.

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 a bite to eat, head downstairs to Edwin Wine Bar and Cellar for breakfast, lunch and dinner and take note of happy hour available from 4–6pm every day. For one of the most stunning views in Melbourne, head up to the Cloakroom Bar on level 46 and enjoy a signature cocktail.

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. No expense has been spared in this slick $18 million refurb. 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.

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.