Top 20 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Melbourne 2023

The coastal capital of the Australian state of Victoria is Australia’s second-largest city and Sydney’s fiercest rival. The bohemian, more liberal alter-ego of the business-driven capital has an increasingly progressive outlook, a huge range of vibrant character-filled cultures, and a friendly, laid-back vibe that has seen it being labelled as one of the ‘world’s most liveable cities.’

This is a city that doesn’t even have to try to be hip, it just is. It also has quite a collection of effortlessly creative places to stay. From unique hip boutiques to modern, sleek and sexy, here are the best cool and unusual hotels in Melbourne, Australia (in no particular order)…

1. Notel – retro airstream trailers turned very unique, trendy and Instagrammable accommodation

If a collection of six luxury 1970s chrome Airstream caravans sitting high up in the city center (in the Central Business District) sounds like your kind of thing, then this is the perfect quirky Melbourne accommodation for you. With spacious interiors offering clean, curved lines and a calming retro aesthetic, these hip caravans are anything less than ordinary – and they also reside on a rooftop!

The exceptionally rated Notel Melbourne (not a hotel get it?) is the brainchild of James Fry, who owns the car park below, this initially crazy-sounding idea actually works pretty well.

Visitors get cozy, air-conditioned luxury living spaces with private furniture adorned decks, en-suite bathrooms, iPads, WiFi, complimentary minibars views over the city streets below, and the chance to be slap bang in the heart of Australia’s most popular city.

Opt for an upgrade and add an outdoor hot tub too. Airstreams with a difference await at this urban trendsetting Melbourne abode!

• To book, check prices or availability for Notel Melbourne

2. Adelphi Hotel – a colourful and creative upscale hotel and one of the most Instagrammable places to stay in Melbourne

The original and still quite possibly the best, the 4-star exceptionally rated Adelphi Hotel was the city’s first design hotel and is still a major contender. Famous for its desert themes, you can find bowls of sweets scattered throughout the Art Deco style interiors, and the Om Nom restaurant is fully geared up to cater for even the sweetest tooth.

Beyond the sugary gimmick, the very cool Melbourne hotel offers stunning conceptual design throughout, including a horse and carriage sculpture that doubles as a reception desk, a cantilevered swimming pool, industrial bathrooms, and a fabulous rooftop pool and deck.

The swish bedrooms are once again designed for sweetie lovers and the mini-bar offers a refreshing range of non-alcoholic drinks instead of the usual overpriced booze. Fun and fabulously designed the Adelphi is a great choice for travelers who can’t abide sterile chain hotels but still love a bit of luxury!

• To book, check prices or availability for Adelphi Hotel

3. Pan Pacific Melbourne – a sleek, modern and sexy upscale hotel in Melbourne offering incredible views

This is a gorgeous upscale gem offering sleek and sexy accommodation in Melbourne. The Pan Pacific Melbourne is filled with sleek and trendy modern decor but one of the biggest draws is the views.

Depending on which room you choose you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city, Port Phillip bay or Yarra River via their wonderful floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Linked to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, other highlights include 24-hour room service, access to a private lounge (on club-level rooms), some rooms feature kitchenettes, and children age 11 and under stay at no additional charge. 

• To book, check prices or availability for Pan Pacific Melbourne

4. QT Melbourne – a hip, fun and cool fashion-inspired Melbourne boutique hotel perfect for partying Millenials and Gen Zs

One of the hippest hotels in the city (and with the competition in Melbourne that’s really saying something!), the 4-star exceptionally rated QT Hotel takes inspiration from the fashion trade that once dominated the Flinders Street area. Featuring neon sculptures, talking lifts, and video wall art, this trendy Melbourne hotel is quite unlike any other.

Bedrooms at this beautiful boutique hotel offer industrial concrete ceilings, wallpaper-lined wardrobes, graffiti rugs, and gel beds to add to the hotel’s quirky design style, and even the minibar comes fully stacked with artisanal snacks and craft beer. Opt for an upgrade and you’ll find free-standing tubs and superb city views. 

The relaxed lobby cafe, The Cake Shop serves snacks and coffee, while the Pascale Bar & Grill is a competent modern bistro. Locals and visitors alike both enjoy spending time in the very cool Rooftop Bar with views over the city, as well as the Hot Sauce Asian Bar – just wonderful!

• To book, check prices or availability for QT Melbourne

5. W Melbourne – an ultrahip and stylish lifestyle hotel located in hip Flinders Lane hotel with its rebellious  perfect for partying 

The design style at W Melbourne is playful luxury, inspired by the city’s laneway culture with street art, cafes, bars and boutiques and by the wonderful natural world and local flora and fauna. The location on Flinders Street in the central business district puts you close to everything.

The rooms have endearing names going all the way from Cozy, Wonderful, and Fabulous to Marvelous, WOW and Extreme WOW, and they are actually all of those things, with decor inspired by 1969s-style newspaper kiosks and views of the skyline from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The quirky artwork takes you on a trip through Melbourne’s culture and history and the spacious layout makes for a comfortable stay.

Guests have a number of choices for dining, including Lollo by chef Adam D’Sylva, the signature Japanese restaurant WARABI, the Curious bar with its dazzling design and the Culprit bar and cafe. There’s also a state-of-the-art fitness center and a heated indoor swimming pool complete with a gold ceiling and poolside bar.

• To book, check prices or availability for W Melbourne

6. Ink Hotel – a funky, contemporary art hotel located on Southbank perfect for sociable and fun Millennials and Gen Z

On Melbourne’s Southbank, Ink Hotel is situated next to the city’s trendy waterfront with its cool vibes and youthful residents. It is within reach of many attractions and a fantastic position for guests to enjoy all that the city has to offer.

The Ink Hotel has a fun, urban vibe with vivid street art and graffiti adorning the walls. Bedrooms have contemporary-kitsch decor and white-tiled minimalist bathrooms.

With its relaxed atmosphere, the funky Melbourne hotel is great for enjoying food and drink. There’s a cool, kitschy bar serving local beers, snacks, and meals, and light breakfast bites in the hotel lobby every morning. The perfect hotel for a laid-back visit to Melbourne!

• To book, check prices or availability for Ink Hotel Melbourne

7. Ovolo Laneways – stylish, creative and on-trend hotel boutique hotel located in the quiet laneways of Melbourne’s CBD

The 4-star exceptionally rated Ovolo Laneways occupies a super central location in the city (a 5-minute walk from Parliament train station) complete with sleek and modern accommodation.

Hip and trendy but never dull, the funky and unique Melbourne hotel features bespoke wall art inspired by the local laneways and the penthouse suites come complete with a rooftop Jacuzzi.

The guestrooms at this beautiful Melbourne boutique hotel are vibrant and come with all mod cons and suites and premium suites come with quirky touches like jukeboxes, games consoles, and punchbags complete with boxing gloves as well as whirlpool tubs and terraces with city views. 

There is no bar or restaurant on-site, but being located in the Laneways you are right on top of some of the best restaurants and nightlife the city has to offer.

• To book, check prices or availability for Overlo Laneways

8. voco Melbourne Central – a unique, chic and new modern hotel with amazing views hotel located in the heart of Melbourne

voco Melbourne Central is ideally located in the heart of the city close to all the best laneways, restaurants and shopping in Melbourne. Minimalist lines, light-filled interiors and stunning city views create a space to relax while being in the center of it all.

Relax in the spacious rooms with large, comfortable beds, quirky artwork that highlights local flora and fauna, Chromecast and sustainable coffee pod machines. This is a great place for a staycation in the city, especially if you get a room with a freestanding bathtub and skyline views.

You can just step out the front door for the finest dining experiences in Melbourne, or get a delicious rotisserie meal with regional wines at Blacksmith Brasserie and Bar. There’s also a fitness center with top-notch equipment, and a rooftop plunge pool.

• To book, check prices or availability for voco Melbourne Central

9. Ovolo South Yarra – a hip, quirky-chic and funky hotel in South Yarra that boasts stunning city views

The hip, cosmopolitan South Yarra neighborhood is the perfect setting for this retro-chic hotel with its bold pop art and disco-inspired decor. It’s close to the shops, restaurants and tram stop, so whether you’re traveling for work or play, you can get everywhere you need to go.

The plush rooms and suites have names like Boogie and Rockstar, retro styling, pop art, chrome accents and a complimentary minibar. Perks include access to the fitness center, complimentary breakfast, all-day snacks, goody bags, self-service laundry and a free sundowner drink at the social hour every evening.

The Lona Misa restaurant by master chefs Shannon Martinez and Ian Curley serves Latin-inspired food and drinks, and the Backroom bar is worth a visit. With all of this, plus the friendly staff and service, it’s no wonder that most guests look forward to their next stay.

• To book, check prices or availability for Ovolo South Yarra

10. Next Hotel Melbourne – a hip high-end hotel that offers a cool retro-chic vibe and great facilities

The sophisticated style of Next Hotel Melbourne matches the Collins Street vibe, which is the place to work, play, and shop. High fashion, world travel and the city’s historic China Town and Horse Bazaar neighborhoods provide the inspiration for the decor with understated elegance and eclectic touches.

The sumptuous, light-filled rooms have Dreamweave Beds, French linens, artwork by Australian artist, Jonny Niesche and curated mini-bars with spirits and signature cocktails. Many rooms and suites have city views.

There’s a Fitness Center to keep you in shape while traveling, and innovative menus from master chefs at La Madonna Restaurant & Bar. Ingresso serves coffee, drinks and light snacks and The Club offers a sophisticated retreat. Take some time to try and savor the barrel-aged drinks at The Barrel Room.

• To book, check prices or availability for Next Hotel Melbourne

11. Art Series The Cullen – a trendy and vibrant art-inspired hotel located in a gorgeous location on the Moray coast overlooking the sea 

Located just two minutes from the vibrant Chapel Street, the 5-star exceptionally rated Cullen Hotel was the first of the acclaimed Art Series Hotel Group properties to be established in Melbourne.

Bold, daring, and visually inspiring and paying tribute to the Australian artist, Adam Cullen, this funky Melbourne hotel can be found in the hipster district of Prahran. Bedrooms offer stunning views of the Melbourne skyline and are cool and chic featuring original paintings and prints from the late artist himself.

The Gramercy Social serves up American-style comfort food, while the HuTong Dumpling Bar is a Chinese restaurant with a twist. With a state-of-the-art fitness room, a small spa, Smart Car hire and Lekker bicycle hire, the Cullen is an intriguing and beguiling city center hotel.

• To book, check prices or availability for The Cullen Hotel

12. Jazz Corner Hotel – fun, hip and music-themed hotel in Melbourne located above one of the world’s finest live jazz venues

If you really like jazz, then you’re going to love this hip Melbourne hotel. Situated opposite Flagstaff Gardens, the 4-star exceptionally rated Jazz Corner is within easy walking distance of the very best of the city including fabulous shopping, vibrant nightlife, and the world-class live music venue, Bird’s Basement.

Designed to attract finger-snapping, cool cats looking for a comfortable place to crash, the stylish interiors are funky and bright, and unsurprisingly, full of jazz-themed decorations including record covers, instruments, and posters.

Guests can eat at the Jazz Corner Cafe that serves great coffee and light dishes or enjoy a pizza and a beer at the aptly named Beer, Wine, and Calzone restaurant. Live music is regularly played in the basement, and the hotel has a fresh, vibrant feeling that sets it apart from the cool, contemporary vibe offered by many of the hotels in Melbourne.

• To book, check prices or availability for Jazz Corner Hotel

13. Porter Club, The Kinson – a new cool and trendy hotel close to local attractions in the business district

St. Kilda Road is one of the most desirable addresses in the Melbourne suburbs, and that’s where you’ll find this new neighborhood hotel, surrounded by parks and gardens. You’re close to some of the best dining, shopping, cafes, bars and art galleries in Australia’s cultural capital.

Travelers can choose from a variety of rooms, studios and suites, many of which have balconies and sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay. You’ll find a relaxing retro decor with vintage artwork from Vogue, designer furniture, and luxury toiletries. Some studios and suites have kitchenettes for longer stays.

There’s a variety of restaurants, cafes, bakeries and food markets in the area, with Asian, Mediterranean and contemporary Australian cuisine to sample.

• To book, check prices or availability for Porter Club – The Kinson

14. Coppersmith Hotel – a classy urban boutique retreat with stylish retro-chic decor and a lively bar

The exceptionally rated 4-star Coppersmith Hotel is a traditional-style hotel with a warm and familiar feeling atmosphere. Offering Australian hospitality at its finest, visitors can find respite from the busy city streets in the trendy Melbourne hotel’s smart and trendy bar that serves craft beer and premium Australian wines, the wood-paneled bistro offering seasonal offerings from the surrounding areas or the wonderful rooftop terrace which offers superb views of the city.

The bedrooms at this gorgeous Melbourne boutique hotel are calm and peaceful and resplendent with muted tones, designer furniture, and soft comfortable beds. Within walking distance of Albert Park, the centrally located Coppersmith is just a tram ride along Clarendon Street to visit the city’s biggest attractions.

• To book, check prices or availability for Coppersmith Hotel

15. Zagame’s House – a chic, trendy and modern place to stay in Melbourne located in the Central Business District

Located in the heart of historic Carlton – one of Melbourne’s oldest towns – is this genuinely unique, creative, and delicious hotel.

There are 97 super-cool guest rooms showcasing the best in modern interior design, luxurious amenities, and sustainable architecture alongside house restaurants serving some of the finest fresh Australian cuisine and top wines. From the art of the interiors to the art of the menu, every inch of Zagame’s House has been designed to inspire the visitor.

The hotel is located next to Carlton Park with its Exhibition building and museums and surrounded by bustling streets of shops and restaurants. Inside it is a haven of design with cool clear lines and subtle deep colours for a relaxing, funky vibe.

• To book, check prices or availability for Zagame’s House

16. The Olsen – a stylish and artistic all-suite luxury hotel located on Melbourne’s prestigious Chapel Street

Situated in one of the most prestigious streets in Melbourne, Chapel Street, 5-star very highly rated all-suite Olsen Hotel offers sophisticated boutique hotel rooms that combine with the original work of painter Dr. John Olsen and architect Rothe Lowman.

This high-rise cool and contemporary Melbourne boutique hotel is covered with opaque white glass that reflects the city and features a courtyard with a breathtaking glass-bottom swimming pool.

The contemporary upscale suites offer all mod cons including Wifi and iPod docks and upgraded suites feature hot tubs, balconies, terraces, or full kitchens. This 15-story landmark is well known throughout the area, and guests can enjoy dining in any of the brilliant onsite restaurants, the chic spa, or drinking coat beers at the bar, in this stunning building that so brilliant fuses original art with complete luxury!

• To book, check prices or availability for The Olsen Hotel

17. Larwill Studio – cool, colorful and creative with lashings of Scandi chic and bright, playful Larwill works

The 4-star much and exceptionally rated Larwill Studio is a mid-range this art-filled hotel property that features artwork from the late Australian artist David Larwill.

Another of the Art Group Hotels popular properties, the Larwill Studio offers polished, contemporary accommodation full of mid-century style touches. Backing onto the Royal Park, the Larwill is situated in a quiet spot but is still a short walk to North Melbourne or the city center.

Bedrooms at this unique Melbourne boutique hotel are bright, funky, stylish, and spacious and the modernist furniture gives the hotel a Nordic vibe. There are also some cute quirky features such as custom artwork and yoga mats.

In the hotel lobby, you will find Smith & Singleton, a casual, all-day eatery and bar with industrial decor and an open kitchen, while the in-room minibars offer health-conscious snacks like cacao and goji berry snack bars. Hip and happening, the Lawrill Studio is a quiet and trendy retreat from the city.

• To book, check prices or availability for Larwill Studio Melbourne

18. The Prince Hotel – a super-chic beachside modern boutique hotel located in the cosmopolitan bayside suburb of St Kilda

With a chilled-out vibe and glorious seaside setting, the 4-star highly-rated The Prince Hotel offers urban chic for a city by the sea. The hotel’s Art Deco facade belies its cool, contemporary Nordic interior where handmade oak chairs, brass pendants, and concrete coffee tables come as standard.

Achingly hip, the trendy Melbourne hotel appeals to holidaymakers looking to experience the best of city living and beach culture, and offer views over the Port Phillip Bay. The Cantina Restaurant offers Texas-style cuisine, while the Pow Kitchen serves up Asian-inspired dishes for a stylish clientele.

The Prince is just a five-minute walk to the beach, and is nestled nicely in the bohemian enclave St Kilda – a great choice for hipster beach lovers!

• To book, check prices or availability for The Prince Hotel Melbourne

19. Crown Metropol Hotel – a sleek and sexy Melbourne that mixes contemporary chic with a bold design

Situated in the busy business district of Southbank, this stylish high-rise hotel offers design-conscious rooms and plenty of comforts.

Connected to Crown Casino’s shopping, eating, nightlife, cinemas, and gambling floors, the 5-star exceptionally rated Crown Metropol has plenty going on right outside its front door.

The high-ceiling lobby with feature spiral staircase sets the tone for the accommodation on offer, and the room’s clever lighting and dark colors enhance the hotel’s glamorous atmosphere. Upgraded lofts/suites have separate living/dining areas, soaking tubs, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering divine city or Port Phillip Bay views. 

The fabulous pool area with towering glass windows make this one of the best pools in the city, and the sassy Melbourne hotel offers some of the city’s biggest and most popular eateries including Dinner by Heston Blumenthal’s, the Rockpool Bar & Grill, and inventive cocktail restaurant, Maze.

Other hotel highlights include a sleek city-view lounge, a spa, and a 27th-floor indoor pool with superb skyline views. 

• To book, check prices or availability for Crown Metropol Hotel

20. Jasper Boutique Hotel – a vibrant, bright Scandi chic boutique hotel located in the heart of the Market Precinct

If IKEA made hotels, they would build the Jasper Hotel. It is a functional, clever, comfortable space perfectly located for the trams, markets, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment of central Melbourne.

There is, however, a bit more going on here than just Scandi-chic. Some rooms have balconies and some open onto a cute central courtyard to give you chance to rest and relax before you hit the city.

There’s a small onsite gym and free access to Melbourne City Baths Gym if you want something bigger. Finally, there’s the remarkably good Jaspar Kitchen restaurant where the majority of seasonal, free-range of organic ingredients come straight from the famous nearby Queen Victoria Market, perfect for snacks or something a bit heartier.

• To book, check prices or availability for Jasper Boutique Hotel

21. Mantra Southbank – a trendy, contemporary aparthotel located in Little Bourke the city’s vibrant arts and entertainment heart

Located on Little Bourke in the Central Business District, the 4.5 star highly rated Mantra Southbank offers a selection of superb modern apartments and rooms close to the beating heart of the city.

The serviced apartments are bright and spacious and beautifully dressed in a cool, contemporary style, and offer all the conveniences of hotel accommodation. Boasting views over the city or across the Melbourne Botanical Gardens, some of the apartments also feature private balconies where you can take in the fresh air.

The complex has its very own heated indoor pool and Spa facility and The Spire Restaurant serves simple, fresh Australian dishes. There is also a funky bar serving a wide range of cocktails and local beers and wines, proving that the Mantra Southbank really does offer five-star self-catering accommodation.

• To book, check prices or availability for Mantra Southbank 

We also have posts on…

• Cool Boutique hotels in Sydney
• Cool Boutique hotels in Byron Bay
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Brisbane
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Noosa
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Gold Coast
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Perth
• Cool and Unusual hotel in Adelaide
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Cairns
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Broome
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Blue Mountains
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Darwin
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Hobart
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Port Douglas
• Cool and Unusual Hotels in Canberra
• Cool boutique hotels in Auckland
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Queenstown
• Cool Boutique hotels in Wellington
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Hamilton
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Christ Church
• Cool and Unusual hotels in Fremantle