8 Must Do Staycations In Melbourne

Citizens of Melbourne don’t have to spend plenty of money on flights in order to have fun and relax. Being one of the main cultural hubs of Australia, this vibrant city is worth exploring, and what better way to do it than a staycation. A staycation will provide you with a chance to relax, explore, and rediscover the magic of the capital of Victoria, i.e., Melbourne, to discover some of its hidden gems.

Melbourne offers a blend of world-class art, stunning architecture, charming laneways, and an exceptional dining and music scene. This vibrant mix ensures a memorable staycation, whether you’re with family, friends, or a partner. While spring and autumn are the best times to explore Melbourne, you can plan your staycation during other seasons as well. Additionally, here you will find a variety of accommodation options to fit every taste and budget.

Whether you want a luxurious hotel, a cosy boutique stay, or a lively hostel, the city has it all. To make it easy for you to make a move in the right direction, we’ve curated a list of the best must do staycation options in Melbourne. Choose your liking and get going with the fun.

The Crown Towers Melbourne is an iconic hotel situated near the Yarra River that features luxurious interiors and offers magnificent city views to all guests. It’s an ideal accommodation option for all business travellers looking to stay near the centre of the city. All offered amenities are world-class, and what you receive is pure elegance. You can also experience the ultimate luxury in one of their luxurious villas, which includes options like a classic villa, a deluxe villa, a one-bedroom crystal villa, or a two-bedroom crystal villa. The benefits that you will get from it include private express elevators, highly personalised and specialised forms of services, and more. The guests at the villa can also book Crown’s private helicopter service to explore the city based on their preferences. For foods and drinks, you can rely on their amazing restaurants, which include Nobu, Rockpool, Bistro Guillaume, and more.

Google Review – “We spent the weekend there. The room was spacious.The location was perfect. It is located within the Crown Casino complex. It’s a walkable distance to the CBD and Chinatown.The service was 5 stars. The room service was 5 stars and the food was delicious.We will definitely be back.” – Elodie Singh

Activities and Attractions Nearby:

• Crown Melbourne: Luxury casino, hotel, and entertainment complex.
• Melbourne Skydeck: Stunning panoramic views of Melbourne from the 88th floor of Eureka Tower.
• Queens Bridge: Historic bridge connecting Melbourne’s Southbank and CBD.
• Southbank lookout: Observation point offering panoramic views of the city and Yarra River.

Staying at the Pullman Melbourne Albert Park offers you and your family more of a coastal retreat experience. It is an elegant hotel with several modern rooms, some of which provide access to a club lounge as well. For yourself, you can choose from a total of 14 types of accommodations. This staycation is perfect for both business and leisure travellers. All of their stylish rooms and suites provide adequate space and comfort to all guests, making it easier to relax or work at their own pace. They also attract fitness lovers with the facilities such as FIT Lounge, heated pool, sauna, and hot tub. For food, head over to the Windows Restaurant to get amazing lake views while dining, or go with the in-room dining option. They also have a cafe offering premium teas, brewed coffee, and a number of pastries as well. For drinks, consider Mortimer’s gin bar or go with Atrium Bar & Lounge for amazing cocktails and beers.

Google Review – “I stayed for three nights, the bed was huge and very comfortable. There was the softest robe in the closet and a wonderful selection of teas and a coffee machine in my room. The shower had great water pressure and the spa bath was big enough to relax in. The TV connected to my laptop via HDMI to stream Netflix etc.” – Abby Fitzgerald

Activities and Attractions Nearby:

• State Sport Centres – MSAC: Melbourne’s premier sports and aquatic centre, offering world-class facilities for swimming, diving, and various indoor sports.
• Shrine of Remembrance: Solemn war memorial dedicated to Victorians who served and died in wars.
• Albert Park Lake: Calm and peaceful lake surrounded by parklands, popular for picnics, jogging, and boating.
• South Melbourne Market: Historic market offering fresh produce, food stalls, and unique finds.

Located on a busy street of Brunswick Street, is the Melbourne Metropole Central Hotel. No matter how long your staycation is, you are going to enjoy a luxurious time here. Their pricing policy is also quite nominal. The room types that you get include Junior Suite, Studio Suite, One Bedroom Executive with spa or cooking facilities, Two Bedroom Standard, and Two Bedroom Deluxe. The whole of the possession is designed so as to provide comfort and flexibility for the whole of the stay of guests. While staying there, you are going to get a “home away from home” feeling. For joint families, it’s a great option for staycations, as they offer advantageous rates for booking five or more rooms. Come and showcase your culinary skills at their barbeque and enjoy the delicious food you create.

Google Review – “Great location easy to catch the tram or warm to cbd. Loads of local cafes and shops. Large spacious room. Clean and tidy. A few tired patches as expected with the age of the building nothing to worry about. Staff where friendly and helpful.” – Sarah Guinness

Activities and Attractions Nearby:

• Melbourne Museum: A collection of natural and cultural history with interesting exhibits, interactive displays, and engaging experiences for all ages.
• Brunswick Street: This iconic street is the heart of Fitzroy. Enjoy shopping, dining, and roaming around.
• The Rose Street Artists’ Market: This market offers unique handmade crafts, fashion, and art.
• Fitzroy Mills Market: A vibrant weekly market focused on wellness, featuring local produce, artisan food, and health products.
• Rose Street Artists’ Markets: A busy market displaying unique handmade crafts, art, and vintage treasures from local artists and designers.

Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges is the Linden Gardens Rainforest Retreat, which gives you a truly amazing escape in nature. It’s spread across an area of 3 acres of forest and gardens within Mount Dandenong and has four unique retreats, i.e., Garden Retreat, Sanctuary Tower, Linden Cottage, and Gallery Suite. Their accommodations are air-conditioned ones, each of which boasts amazing amenities like a 2-person spa bath, gas log fireplaces, and a kitchenette as well. Their interior features modern designs and antique furnishings that truly are a treat for your eyes. This staycation is an excellent destination for couples, as a lot of them prefer it for their honeymoon. For it, they have a bridal suite room. You can also pick for their in-suite massage and spa treatments. For breakfast, you can book a breakfast package at the time of hotel booking, in which you get served toast and fresh juice to your room each morning. You can also choose complimentary tea, hot chocolate, and chocolate muffins.

Google Review – “What a standout experience. My husband and I have spent two anniversary weekends here. The rooms are amazing and the location is pretty great—most restaurants, cafes, and attractions are a five-minute drive away. You won’t be wanting.” – Jean Jackson

Activities and Attractions Nearby:

• William Ricketts Sanctuary: Immerse yourself in nature and art with unique sculptures by William Ricketts.
• Mount Dandenong Observatory: Enjoy scenic views of the Dandenong Ranges and beyond.
• Olinda Falls: Discover a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.
• Doongalla Picnic Ground: Relax and unwind in nature with barbecue facilities and scenic views.

Stay at The Larwill Studio Melbourne – Art Series for a great staycation for the whole of your family. This boutique hotel is inspired by Australian artist David Larwill’s studio work, which is clearly highlighted in the overall design, views, and aesthetics of the property. All the rooms are stylishly designed, featuring custom bedding and unique artwork. For your little ones, they have a loaner pram that you can use while moving from one place to another, providing you with the required comfort. Other than that, they rent out their bikes and cars to explore what’s going on nearby. For mental repose, relax at the poolside, gym, or sauna, or grab a bite at the hotel’s cafe itself. For food, you can go with their in-house catering option. Enjoy their breakfast, free instant coffee, and complimentary tea while you stay there. Due to its feasible location, you would be able to enjoy a great family outing with your family, as a number of worthwhile places are available nearby this hotel.

Google Review – “Lovely service, tidy and nice rooms, with jazz as well. Amazing view too also beside the royal children’s Hospital which is not exactly a fun place but still convenient if you need to take children to see doctors there. I checked in at night and never slept better. Amazing experience.” – Harry Huang

Activities and Attractions Nearby:

• Melbourne Zoo: Get to see a diverse wildlife from around the world.
• Melbourne Museum: Explore natural history, culture, and science exhibits.
• Melbourne University: Reputable university with a rich history and academic excellence.
• Melbourne Central Shopping Center: Lively shopping hub with diverse stores and dining options.

The Langham, Melbourne, is truly a haven of luxury, situated right in the heart of the city. This iconic 5-star hotel boasts breathtaking views of the Yarra River and the Melbourne skyline. The grand marble staircase, shining chandeliers, and charming fountains at their place are no less than a treat for your eyes. Offering elegance and unparalleled service in every way is what they aim for. Their accommodation types are divided into three parts: rooms, club rooms, and suites. For rooms and club rooms, they have 4 options, and for suites, they have 3 options. Their exceptional efforts have helped them win the 2024 TripAdvisor Traveller Choice Award, as they were ranked the #1 city hotel in Australia. You can head over to their indoor pool, or you can even unwind in the spa for relaxation. They offer world-class cuisine at their renowned restaurants, offering exceptional dishes prepared from locally sourced ingredients. With it, they also offer a selection of premium drinks that you can enjoy. Their signature afternoon tea is something that you should not miss at all.

Google Review – “Beautiful hotel, comfortable beddings, and supportive staff. Would love to stay here again! Their breakfast buffet was big and had everything you could think of. Could be considered on the high end price, but we did choose to stay at this hotel for a reason.” –  Kim Nguyen

Activities and Attractions Nearby:

• Virtual Room Melbourne: VR Escape Game: Take part in thrilling virtual reality adventures and escape the ordinary.
• Melbourne Skydeck: Witness breathtaking panoramic views of Melbourne.
• National Gallery of Victoria: Discover a vast collection of art from various centuries and cultures.
• St Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne: Enjoy the architectural greatness of this historic Anglican cathedral.

The Best Western Plus Travel Inn Hotel is a 4-star hotel situated near the Melbourne CBD. The accommodation types that they offer include the Deluxe Queen Room, Deluxe Twin Room, Executive Room, Deluxe King Room, Family Room, and King Spa Suite. For added convenience, they also feature a coffee pod machine in each room. In some of the upgraded rooms, you also get an added whirlpool bathtub with a local gym as well. Their staff is appreciated a lot by the guests who stayed here. After coming back from a busy staycation day, you can opt to relax at their luxurious spa suites. Along with this, you can loosen up by enjoying your favourite drink with your companions at their cocktail bar and restaurant. They also have on-site dining options consisting of a classic bistro, namely Gratin on Grattan Bar and Restaurant, that serves amazing Australian cuisine.

Google Review – “Brilliant location near everything important. Staff were so friendly and helpful / especially Therese and Jack. Rooms were well fitted out and so clean and tidy. Beds were really comfy – a rare occurrence in hotels! I had a great experience and will definitely come back on my next trip to Melbourne. Thank you.” – Petrina Verma

Activities and Attractions Nearby:

• Carlton Gardens: Explore beautiful greenery, historic buildings, and Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building.
• Chinatown Melbourne: Immerse yourself in vibrant Asian culture, delicious food, and busy shops.
• The Melbourne Central Clock: Take a peak at this landmark’s intricate mechanics and historical significance.
• Monopoly Dreams Melbourne: Play a life-sized Monopoly board game for a fun and interactive experience.

The Royal Hotel Mornington & Walter’s Dining Hall effortlessly blends history with modern comfort. They offer uncomplicated beachfront accommodation with three spacious suites, four economy rooms, and a coastal-luxe three-bedroom apartment. It’s really a gem that has been effectively restored to its former glory to offer a distinctive experience to all guests. The modern renovations have preserved its seaside charm and laid-back luxury. The stay options that they feature include a 3-bedroom apartment, a Deluxe Suite + Sofa Bed, a Deluxe Suite, a Premium Suite, and an Economy Suite. Many of their accommodations even offer views over Mills Beach, Royal Beach, and Fishies Beach as well. For dining, you can go to their in-house restaurant, Walter’s Dining Hall, which is an Asian-inspired restaurant featuring a menu that changes seasonally. They also have three bars named Tavern Bar, Garden Bar, and Front Bar, wherein you can sip on your favourite beer and wine.

Google Review – “We had our engagement party at walters and it was incredible, gorgeous venue and amazing food and cocktails! We also stayed the night in a beautiful clean room with bay views, can’t wait to go back!!” – Emily

Activities and Attractions Nearby:

• Mornington Pier: Walk the pier, fish off the jetty, or soak up the seaside vibes
• Mills Beach: Relax on soft sand, splash in calm waters, or explore tide pools.
• Mornington Botanical Rose Gardens: Smell the roses! Explore gardens with over 5,000 blooms.
• Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery: See cool art by local and national artists.

Planning a staycation in your own city can be a fantastic way to unwind, recharge, and rediscover hidden gems. To ensure your staycation really becomes unforgettable, here are some essential tips:

• Plan Ahead: Research and book activities and accommodations in advance; create a loose itinerary with some planned adventures and relaxation time to ensure you make the most of your staycation.
• Make it Special: To make your staycation experience really special, treat yourself to something special you wouldn’t typically do, like booking a luxurious hotel. You can even theme your staycation around your interests, like exploring historical sites or indulging in a foodie adventure.
• Explore New Areas: This is your chance to become a tourist in your own city! Go beyond your usual haunts and discover hidden gems you’ve been wanting to try. Research local attractions and museums you haven’t visited yet. Explore neighbourhoods you haven’t walked through before, or discover hidden laneways and parks.
• Budget Wisely: Staycations can be budget-friendly! Set a spending limit in advance and plan your activities accordingly. Take advantage of Melbourne’s many free or economical activities, like parks, outdoor events, and museums that have free entry. Look out for hotel staycation deals to save on your accommodation too.

Melbourne really has endless possibilities when it comes to offering its visitors the perfect destination for an unforgettable staycation. Whether you crave relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, this city has something for everyone. Enjoy luxurious hotel escapes and rejuvenating spa retreats, explore hidden gems, or indulge in the city’s diverse food scene. From the bustling city centre to the charming suburbs, Melbourne offers a variety of experiences. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on a staycation in Melbourne that promises to revive your spirit and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.