The best hotels for your Melbourne staycation

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. Book the shopping package and the team will add on a $50 shopping voucher, a cute Melb-themed tote bag and decadent buffet breakfast. Don't skip the complimentary chocolate hour either. 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.

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.

Calling all mermaids. DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne is transforming two of its best rooms into a glowing neon, underwater-themed wonderland for a once-off staycation experience (13 April to 12 July). The package includes a one-night stay, complimentary breakfast, cookies and chocolates, an adopt a dolphin or sea turtle certificate and free parking. While you're at it, head to hotel bar Platform 270 and for an exclusive sea-themed cocktail or mocktail. Book via the DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne website using the code PROCEA or request the Under the Ocean room by phone or email.

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 Adam D’Sylva’s Lollo, basement spot Curious or poolside drinks with views on level 14.

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.

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.

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.

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. More local flair takes over in the guestrooms. Coffee is curated by Dukes Coffee Roasters and bath products are by local maker Hunter Lab.

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 package. 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 the Quincy Escape to save on your stay, with added extras like free wine and late check out!

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.

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.