During my recent trip to Melbourne, I was on the lookout for a budget-friendly hotel that wouldn’t compromise on comfort or convenience. After extensive research, I stumbled upon Space Hotel, a modern and affordable option located in the heart of Melbourne’s bustling Central Business District (CBD). The hotel’s location at 380 Russell Street immediately caught my eye due to its proximity to some of the city’s major attractions. It’s just a short walk from the Melbourne Central Shopping Centre, the Queen Victoria Market, and the State Library of Victoria.
Booking My Stay
Booking a room at Space Hotel was an absolute breeze. I used the hotel’s official website, where I found a user-friendly interface that allowed me to select the room type, view availability, and compare prices. The website also offered various packages, including discounts for longer stays, which I found quite appealing. After comparing prices across a few platforms, I found that booking directly through the hotel’s website provided the best deal, with no hidden fees. The booking confirmation arrived instantly via email, complete with all the necessary details for my stay.
Getting to Space Hotel
Arriving at Space Hotel from Melbourne Airport was straightforward. I opted for the SkyBus, which runs regularly between the airport and Southern Cross Station in the CBD. From Southern Cross, it was a quick tram ride to Melbourne Central Station, followed by a short 10-minute walk to the hotel. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service would have taken me directly to the hotel, but I preferred the convenience and cost-effectiveness of public transport.
First Impressions and Surroundings
When I first walked into the hotel, I was impressed by the sleek, contemporary design of the lobby. The atmosphere was lively, with fellow travelers lounging in the common areas, chatting, and planning their day. The check-in process was efficient, and the staff were friendly and welcoming, providing me with a map of the city and recommendations for nearby restaurants and attractions.
The neighborhood around Space Hotel is vibrant and lively, with a mix of cafes, bars, and shops that cater to both locals and tourists. The hotel is conveniently located near public transport, making it easy to explore the rest of the city. I particularly appreciated the short walk to the Queen Victoria Market, where I could enjoy fresh produce and delicious street food.
Room and Amenities
I opted for a single private room with an ensuite bathroom, as I was seeking a balance between privacy and affordability. Upon entering my room, I was pleased with the clean, minimalist design. The bed was comfortable, the linens were fresh, and the room was equipped with essential amenities such as a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. The bathroom, though compact, was modern and spotless, with a powerful shower and complimentary toiletries.
One of the highlights of Space Hotel is its range of communal facilities. The rooftop terrace was my favorite spot, offering stunning views of the Melbourne skyline. I spent several evenings there, relaxing in the rooftop spa and soaking in the city’s vibrant energy. The hotel also has a well-equipped gym, a cinema room, and a communal kitchen, which were all clean and well-maintained. I was particularly impressed by the cinema room, where I enjoyed a couple of movie nights with other guests.
Dining Options
While Space Hotel does not have an in-house restaurant, there is an on-site bar and cafe called the Blue Moon Bar. It’s a great place to grab a quick breakfast or unwind with a drink in the evening. The hotel’s location also means that there are countless dining options nearby, ranging from budget-friendly cafes to upscale restaurants. I enjoyed exploring the local food scene, trying everything from authentic Italian pizza to modern Australian cuisine.
My Experience and Rating
My stay at Space Hotel was incredibly satisfying. The combination of its prime location, modern facilities, and affordable pricing makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want to enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay in Melbourne. The staff were consistently helpful and friendly, and I felt well taken care of throughout my visit. For anyone looking for a budget hotel that doesn’t skimp on quality, I highly recommend Space Hotel. I would rate my stay 8.5/10, deducting a few points only because the rooms could be slightly larger. Nonetheless, it provided excellent value for money, and I would happily stay there again on my next trip to Melbourne.
Recommended Budget Hotels in Melbourne
Now that I’ve shared my personal experience at Space Hotel, I’d like to introduce you to five other budget hotels in Melbourne that have caught my attention. Although I haven’t stayed at these hotels myself, they come highly recommended based on reviews and research. Each of these hotels offers a unique experience, catering to different types of travelers.
1. Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD
Located at 97-103 Elizabeth Street, Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD is an excellent option for travelers looking for affordable accommodation right in the heart of Melbourne. This hotel is particularly popular among budget-conscious tourists and business travelers due to its unbeatable location. Situated just a stone’s throw away from Bourke Street Mall, the hotel places guests within walking distance of major shopping centers, dining venues, and public transport options.
One of the key advantages of staying at Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD is the proximity to public transport. Flinders Street Station is only a 5-minute walk away, providing easy access to the entire city. Additionally, the hotel’s central location means that many of Melbourne’s top attractions, such as Federation Square and the Yarra River, are just a short walk away.
While the hotel does not offer an on-site restaurant, there are plenty of dining options nearby. Guests can start their day with a quick coffee and pastry at one of the many nearby cafes or indulge in a full breakfast at one of the local eateries. For those who prefer to dine in, there are several convenience stores and supermarkets within walking distance where guests can purchase snacks or ready-made meals.
The hotel staff at Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD are known for their friendly and helpful service. Check-in and check-out processes are smooth, and the staff are always ready to provide recommendations or assist with any requests. The hotel’s 24-hour reception is also a plus for guests arriving late or needing assistance outside of regular hours.
Overall, Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD is a solid choice for travelers who want to be in the center of the action without breaking the bank. It offers basic but comfortable accommodation in a prime location, making it ideal for tourists and business travelers alike.
2. The Victoria Hotel Melbourne
The Victoria Hotel, located at 215 Little Collins Street, is a historic budget hotel that offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. This hotel has been a fixture in Melbourne since 1880, making it one of the city’s oldest hotels. Despite its age, the hotel has undergone several renovations to ensure that it meets the needs of contemporary travelers.
One of the standout features of The Victoria Hotel is its location. Situated in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, the hotel is just a short walk from popular attractions like Federation Square, the National Gallery of Victoria, and the Melbourne Aquarium. The hotel is also close to public transport, with trams and trains easily accessible.
For dining, The Victoria Hotel offers several options. Mister Munro, the hotel’s in-house restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a menu that combines traditional Australian cuisine with modern flavors. There is also a bar where guests can relax with a drink after a day of sightseeing. Additionally, the hotel is surrounded by numerous dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments.
The Victoria Hotel also offers a range of facilities that enhance the guest experience. These include a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a sauna, which are great for guests looking to stay active or unwind during their stay. There are also conference and meeting facilities available, making it a convenient choice for business travelers.
The hotel’s staff are praised for their professionalism and attentiveness, ensuring that guests have a pleasant and comfortable stay. Whether it’s providing directions, making restaurant reservations, or offering tips on local attractions, the staff go out of their way to assist.
Overall, The Victoria Hotel is a fantastic option for travelers seeking affordable accommodation with a touch of history and class. Its central location, comfortable rooms, and excellent facilities make it a standout choice in Melbourne’s budget hotel scene.
3. Tune Hotel Melbourne
Tune Hotel Melbourne is a budget-friendly hotel located at 609 Swanston Street, just a few minutes away from the University of Melbourne and the vibrant Lygon Street, known for its Italian cafes and restaurants. This hotel is part of the Tune Hotels chain, which is known for offering affordable accommodation without compromising on quality.
The hotel’s concept is simple: provide guests with the essentials for a comfortable stay at a reasonable price. The rooms at Tune Hotel Melbourne are compact yet well-designed, with a focus on functionality. Each room comes with a comfortable bed, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and an ensuite bathroom with a power shower. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, which is a great perk for budget travelers.
One of the unique aspects of Tune Hotel Melbourne is its “pay for what you use” model. Guests can customize their stay by adding on amenities such as daily housekeeping, towel rental, or in-room safes, depending on their needs. This allows travelers to save money by only paying for the services they require, making it an ideal choice for those on a tight budget.
The hotel’s location is another major advantage. Situated in the vibrant Carlton district, it’s close to the Melbourne Museum, the Royal Exhibition Building, and the historic Queen Victoria Market. Public transport is easily accessible, with trams stopping right outside the hotel, making it convenient to explore the rest of the city.
Although Tune Hotel Melbourne does not have an on-site restaurant, there are plenty of dining options nearby. The hotel is within walking distance of Lygon Street, where guests can find a variety of Italian restaurants, cafes, and dessert shops. For those who prefer to dine in, there are several supermarkets and convenience stores nearby.
The hotel’s staff are known for their friendly and helpful service. They are available 24/7 to assist with check-in, provide local recommendations, or help with any issues that may arise during the stay. The hotel also offers luggage storage, which is convenient for guests who arrive early or need to store their bags after check-out.
Overall, Tune Hotel Melbourne offers a no-frills, budget-friendly accommodation option in a great location. Its customizable services, clean and comfortable rooms, and proximity to key attractions make it a popular choice among budget travelers.
4. Atlantis Hotel Melbourne
Located at 300 Spencer Street, Atlantis Hotel Melbourne offers affordable accommodation with a touch of luxury. This 4-star budget hotel is situated near Southern Cross Station, making it a convenient choice for travelers arriving by train or from the airport via the SkyBus. The hotel’s prime location also puts guests within walking distance of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Marvel Stadium, and the Docklands precinct.
One of the standout features of Atlantis Hotel is its indoor heated swimming pool, which is a rare find in budget hotels. The pool area is well-maintained and provides a relaxing environment for guests to unwind after a day of exploring the city. There is also a fitness center on-site, which is equipped with modern exercise equipment for those who wish to keep up with their workout routine during their stay.
The hotel offers a daily buffet breakfast, which includes a variety of hot and cold options such as eggs, bacon, pastries, cereals, and fresh fruit. The breakfast is served in the hotel’s dining area, which has a relaxed and casual atmosphere. For lunch and dinner, there are plenty of dining options nearby, including restaurants at the Docklands and cafes in the surrounding area.
Atlantis Hotel also caters to business travelers, offering several meeting rooms and conference facilities. The hotel’s central location, combined with its business amenities, makes it a popular choice for those attending events or meetings in the city.
The staff at Atlantis Hotel are known for their professional and courteous service. Guests have praised the team for being attentive and accommodating, ensuring that all needs are met during their stay. The 24-hour reception desk is also a plus, providing assistance at any time of day or night.
Overall, Atlantis Hotel Melbourne is an excellent choice for travelers looking for affordable accommodation with a bit of added comfort and luxury. Its spacious rooms, great facilities, and convenient location make it a standout option in Melbourne’s budget hotel scene.
5. Pensione Hotel Melbourne
Pensione Hotel Melbourne is a boutique budget hotel located at 16 Spencer Street, right in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. This charming hotel offers a unique blend of European style and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking affordable yet stylish accommodation.
One of the highlights of Pensione Hotel is its rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the city skyline. The terrace is a great spot to relax with a drink in the evening or enjoy the fresh air during the day. The hotel also has a cozy lounge area in the lobby, where guests can unwind with a book or catch up on work using the free Wi-Fi available throughout the property.
The hotel does not have an on-site restaurant, but it is located within walking distance of some of Melbourne’s best dining options. Guests can easily access the cafes and restaurants along Southbank, or explore the nearby laneways, which are famous for their hidden eateries and street art. For those who prefer to eat in, the hotel is also close to several supermarkets and convenience stores.
Pensione Hotel is ideally located for exploring Melbourne’s attractions. The hotel is just a short walk from the Crown Casino, the Melbourne Aquarium, and the Yarra River. Public transport is also easily accessible, with Southern Cross Station and multiple tram stops nearby, making it easy to get around the city.
The staff at Pensione Hotel are known for their warm and welcoming service. Guests have praised the team for their helpfulness and local knowledge, with staff always ready to provide recommendations or assist with any requests. The hotel also offers luggage storage, which is convenient for guests who arrive early or have late flights.
Pensione Hotel Melbourne is a great choice for travelers looking for a budget hotel with personality and charm. Its stylish design, convenient location, and friendly service make it a standout option in Melbourne’s affordable accommodation scene.
