Best Boutique Hotels in Melbourne

A bold, colourfully lit facade meets guests arriving at the Adelphi, a palette that continues inside, along with quirky artwork and installations. Its heated, year-round cantilever rooftop pool on level 9 is a highlight for many visitors, conducive to some swoon-worthy holiday snaps. Attention to detail is a big deal here; from the personalised welcome notes in each room to the luxurious linens and bath products. Take advantage of bespoke experiences, such as gin-making sessions and private cinema screenings. The Adelphi, a design hotel, is located in the central business district of Melbourne.

The Royce, located on Melbourne’s iconic St Kilda Road, pays homage to the golden age and glamour of the original Rolls Royce showroom. Guests can indulge in uncompromising quality and luxury from one of the 96 rooms, most of which offer balconies with views of the city’s skyline. Breakfast is served in The Conservatory, surrounded by lush greenery, and the hotel is a gateway to the National Gallery of Victoria and the Arts Centre.

Attracting A-listers like Bruce Springsteen and David Beckham into its three penthouse suites, this property is set on the buzzy Chapel Street. The hotel has been around for decades, but took on a new personality under Sofitel, blending contemporary and retro elements in a fashion-forward approach. It has a breakfast brasserie and a bar, as well as room service, with lunch and evening restaurants plentiful in its neighbourhood vicinity. Be sure to make use of the heated pool on the top floor and look out for the signature rubber duck in the bathrooms; a nod to The Como’s quirky heritage.

Named after, and inspired by, the late Adam Cullen, a native artist with a unique style, The Cullen is a Prahran Hotel with a daring approach. The hotel, which opened in 2009, is filled with Cullen’s offbeat contemporary art, which guests can also purchase. Sleep in an Art Series Signature Bed, revel in the rarity of a Melbourne hotel balcony, dine in two super cool eateries (Gramercy Social and HuTong Dumpling Bar), borrow an eco-car and take one of the Lekker loaner bikes for a spin. Its situation is a little off the tourist trail, adding to The Cullen’s bohemian cred.

Bijou (by Melbourne standards), The Lyall is found in the upscale neighbourhood of South Yarra, known for its fashionable shops, galleries and restaurants. Its 49 suites boast separate living areas, kitchens and private balconies, with some overlooking the Japanese Maple Garden; book a Parisienne balcony room, a Grand Suite or the Penthouse to be at the top of the tree here. The hotel is quite the urban sanctuary, with an on-site spa and relaxation suite that has won numerous awards. The Lyall Champagne Bar and Bistro offers a French-inspired menu with an emphasis on fresh and locally-sourced ingredients.