What Is The Best Part Of Melbourne To Stay In? A Guide For Every Traveller

Melbourne is often praised as one of the world’s most liveable cities—known for its vibrant art scene, coffee culture, diverse neighbourhoods, and friendly vibe. When planning your stay, the question becomes: what’s the best part of Melbourne to stay in? Your ideal area depends on your interests, budget, and travel style. Here’s a breakdown of Melbourne’s top neighbourhoods—with an extra tip on corporate-style furnished apartments.

1. Melbourne CBD – Top Pick for First-Timers & Convenience

The Central Business District (CBD) is the city’s pulse. By staying here, you’re steps away from iconic laneways, Federation Square, Bourke Street Mall, Chinatown, the Yarra River, and countless tram lines. Ideal for those wanting easy public transport, major attractions, and a full-on Melbourne feel.

Pros:

• Excellent transport links (trams, trains, airport shuttle)
• Walking distance to major landmarks
• Wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget stays

Cons:

• Can be noisy and bustling
• Lacks that local, residential atmosphere

2. Southbank – Riverside Luxe & Cultural Scene

Just across the Yarra River is Southbank, a modern district lined with upscale restaurants, bars, and arts venues like Arts Centre Melbourne and the NGV. It also hosts Crown Casino and the Convention Centre—perfect for luxury seekers and business travellers.

Pros:

• Scenic riverside walks and skyline vistas
• High-end hotels and apartments
• Close to theatres and galleries

Cons:

• Pricier stays
• Feels more urban, less homely

3. Fitzroy – For the Creative and Eclectic

If you want a hip, artistic vibe, look no further than Fitzroy. This bohemian hotspot boasts street art, indie boutiques, vegan cafes, vinyl stores, and a buzzing nightlife along Brunswick Street.

Pros:

• Edgy, artsy flair
• Unique shops and café culture
• Lively nightlife with live music

Cons:

• Slightly removed from CBD public transport (but walkable)
• Some older accommodations may lack modern amenities

4. St Kilda – Beachside Chill & Family Fun

Love the beach? St Kilda combines urban life with a coastal atmosphere. Enjoy St Kilda Beach, Luna Park, the pier (perfect for sunset and penguin spotting), plus café-lined Acland Street.

Pros:

• Laid-back seaside lifestyle
• Great nightlife and casual dining
• Budget-friendly, hostel options available

Cons:

• About 20 minutes from CBD by tram
• Less ideal for business-focused stays

5. South Yarra & Prahran – Shopping & Sophistication

For style and substance, South Yarra and Prahran are unbeatable. Chapel Street offers trendy boutiques, gourmet cafés, and swish bars. Prahran Market is a foodie's delight.

Pros:

• High-end shopping and dining
• Elegant yet local feel
• Well-connected by trains and trams

Cons:

• More residential than touristy
• Accommodations tend to be apartment-based

6. Carlton – Academia & Italian Charm

Just north of the CBD, Carlton blends academic energy (home to Melbourne University and museums) with the charm of “Little Italy” on Lygon Street. It’s leafy, cultured, and perfect for travellers seeking a quieter stay.

Pros:

• Close to universities and cultural institutions
• Quality Italian dining and coffee
• Green spaces like Carlton Gardens

Cons:

• Low nightlife scene
• Fewer accommodation choices

7. Southbank – Corporate Keys Furnished Apartments

One standout option in Southbank (and parts of Melbourne) is Corporate Keys—an Australian-owned provider offering fully furnished apartments designed for extended and corporate stays. Established in 2005, they manage over 500 units across Australia and New Zealand. Properties include modern 1–2 bedroom apartments in iconic towers like Eureka and Freshwater Place, often up to 40–50% cheaper than comparable serviced hotels.

Why Choose Corporate Keys?

• Spacious, self-contained units with full kitchens, laundry, and separate living areas
• Ideal for long stays—weekly rates begin at around A$595 for one-bedroom city apartments.
• Situated in desirable areas like Southbank and Port Melbourne, offering easy access to CBD, arts precincts, and the river.
• Guests report clean units, helpful staff, and stunning views—with an overall Booking.com rating of 7.0/10 and praises for location and comfort.

Potential Drawbacks:

Some feedback noted occasional service hiccups—like slow response for early check-in, missing kitchen items, or parking complexities.

Still, if you're seeking a longer-term stay with more space, flexibility, and local vibe—without committing to a lease—Corporate Keys offers a great alternative to hotels.

No matter which area you choose, Melbourne’s compact layout and excellent tram/train coverage make getting around easy. Whether you're drawn to the city's centre, creative hubs, chic boutiques, or the beachside breeze, Melbourne offers a perfect match for every traveller. And if your stay stretches longer, furnished Corporate Keys apartments offer that extra touch of "home away from home.