3 Best Hotels in Melbourne, Victoria

Located in the grand 1930s Equity Chambers building and a modern tower behind it, the new Hilton draws upon that golden era of travel for a touch of glamour. Choose the heritage suites to the front of the hotel, or opt for the city-view rooms, with their walls of glass. The hotel restaurant, Luci, serves up Australian-Italian fare while The Douglas Club serves up cocktails, wine and Australian craft beers.

Set right next to Fitzroy Gardens and opposite St. Patrick's Cathedral, this is one of Melbourne's most elegant hotels. Warm colors, rich wood paneling, and art deco–style furnishings adorn the rooms—all of which have walk-in wardrobes, king-size beds, Italian marble bathrooms, Nespresso coffee machines, and roomy, modern work spaces. Suites are even more luxurious, some with fireplaces, terraces, and hot tubs. The seven-level radii restaurant and bar is artsy and chic, and contemporary artworks by international talents are on exhibit throughout the hotel (some are for sale). The day spa features an indoor aquamarine pool, spa, sauna, gym, and private sundeck, which is a popular option.

"Understated elegance" is the catchphrase of The Lyall, located in a quiet, leafy street in one of the city's most prestigious neighborhoods. Following a complete remodeling, the hotel now has 49 enormous one-bedroom suites with floor-to-ceiling windows for fresh air and also individual air conditioners, some with views of the hotel's Japanese maple garden. The in-house spa administers a full range of massages, facials, and body treatments (try the organic green tea exfoliation). You can curl up with a book or play chess in the guest lounge off the lobby; the champagne bar is the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing while the hotel restaurant serves relaxed breakfasts and all-day dining.