The Best Hotels to Book in Melbourne With a Balcony

Plush interiors are the key draw at the Langham Melbourne. The marble interior sparkles under the light of the chandelier as you float up the sweeping staircase. From your sprawling 19sqm (205sqft) personal balcony on the 10th floor, gaze out over the Melbourne skyline as it morphs from day into glittery evening. Then step in to savour your sophisticated surroundings complete with a large marble bathroom. You’re conveniently close to Flinders Street Station, the Arts Centre and the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), but stay in some days for riverfront buffet breakfasts, as well as lunch and dinner at the hotel’s celebrated Melba Restaurant.

This is a fine five-star luxury find in a good central Melbourne location with exquisite views over St Patrick’s Cathedral, Fitzroy Gardens and the CBD. Of the 245 guest rooms, the special-occasion terrace suite really pushes the boat out with 65sqm (700sqft) of luxury and an enviable outdoor terrace – throw back the covers of your king bed each morning, step outside and stretch – you won’t be short of space. Should the Melbourne weather turn a little chilly, keep warm in front of the fireplace – it’s gas-operated but looks like the real thing. If you’re keen to venture forth, the designer stores on Collins Street are just a short walk from the hotel.

Laid-back multicultural Brunswick is a vibrant suburb in Melbourne’s north, home to a whirring art and music scene. Sound like your thing? Check in at Artel Apartments, on Sydney Road, the main drag that’s lined with galleries, hip cafes and vintage stores. No pressing need to mingle down below when you can watch the street life unfold below from your private balcony. You might head out to pick up some ingredients from local grocery stores – then cook up a storm in your fully equipped kitchenette. Close to both train and tram stations, this is a winner, with the city on your doorstep. There’s even secure on-site parking for those with a car.

Tranquillity reigns at this spot on the banks of the Yarra River in Richmond. Here, you’ll find Amora Hotel Riverwalk: modern accommodation ranging from suites to two-bedroom apartments. Our favourites are the courtyard queen rooms with balconies and the two-bathroom townhouse apartment, also balconied. They’re perfect perches to idle about on, planning which factory outlets to visit on nearby Bridge Road – your balcony overlooks the main shopping precinct. Spending not your thing? Head for a wander on the nearby walking trail, following the river. Or go further afield – the Bridge Road tram stop is just out front.

Here’s a sophisticated Melbourne hotel with balcony lounging en-suite, conveniently enough right on William Street. Staying here, you’re within walking distance of Melbourne’s popular Queen Victoria Market, Flagstaff Gardens, the Casino and many bars and restaurants. On the corner are tram stops to both east/west and north/south destinations, so you’ve got the city as good as in the palm of your hand. One- and two-bedroom apartments have fully equipped kitchens and spacious balconies to kick back on, entertaining family and friends. Or take them up to the heated rooftop pool and throw a barbecue.

Equidistant between Albert Park and the St Kilda Pier, in the heart of seaside St Kilda, is the Tolarno Hotel – an icon of Fitzroy Street. As you check in, admire the original artwork by celebrated artist Mirka Mora, who resided in the hotel from 1965 to 1970. High ceilings create a spacious ambience in the rooms, while balconies are peaceful domains overlooking an internal courtyard. Our advice – head out to dine in one of the nearby restaurants or cafes. (If you’d really rather, you could warm a meal in your mini-kitchenette.) This is a well-connected place – access Melbourne’s main attractions from the tram stop outside the building (routes 96, 16 or 112.) If you’re driving, you’re in luck. Parking is available across Fitzroy Street in the George Building.

For our money, this is one of the best hotels in Melbourne with balcony options. It’s in the CBD, adjacent to Queen Victoria Market, with courtyard-access and balconied rooms that make for a tranquil escape after you’ve been busy sightseeing – CBD attractions include the Bourke Street Mall, just a tram ride down Elizabeth Street. (There’s a stop right outside the hotel.) Back at the ranch, sip your coffee outside on your balcony, overlooking Elizabeth Street below. For larger groups, book a family suite, which sleeps up to five and has an enclosed courtyard as well as views over Elizabeth Street.

The grand 19th-century classical architecture exterior of this centrally located boutique hotel conceals a cool, contemporary interior – expect queen rooms, king rooms and apartments including a spa-centric number, all with snazzy fern-print bedding and smart monochrome wall photography. The Alto Hotel is resource-smart, priding itself on its eco-friendly, carbon-neutral status powered by 100% renewable energy. Fancy a balcony or terrace? Request a one- or two-bedroom apartment. And when you’re ready for a gargle and a natter, venture up to the Terrace Bar, with its commanding city views. Southern Cross Station is less than a five-minute walk, and there’s free parking for guests in hybrid or electric vehicles.