11 of The Best Hotels in Melbourne For Families 2024
A great family holiday starts with the perfect accommodation, and there are plenty of options to choose from in Melbourne. With its stunning beaches, sprawling parks, bustling cafés and more, you’ll never run out of activities while visiting the vibrant city.
Whether you’re looking for luxury accomodation or budget options, I’ve got you covered. As an Australian who has travelled to Melbourne several times a year for many years, I have stayed in a number of these hotels before.
In this article, I will share my experience and knowledge about some of the best family hotels in Melbourne and help you decide which one is suitable for your next trip to the city. You can trust me; I am a reliable source when it comes to talking to family travellers about their accommodation options.
Planning a memorable family vacation is no easy task, especially when it comes to finding the perfect accommodation that caters to everyone’s needs.
In the vibrant city of Melbourne, Australia, families are spoiled for choice with an array of inviting hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and an abundance of activities for children of all ages.
From spacious suites to exciting amenities, all of the following family friendly hotels in Melbourne provide an ideal base for exploring the city’s captivating attractions while ensuring an enjoyable and stress-free experience for the whole family.
With its stunning architecture, thriving arts scene, and world-class dining options, Melbourne is a gem of a destination that appeals to travellers of all ages.
Known for its cosmopolitan vibe and cultural diversity, the city is home to an impressive selection of family hotels that go above and beyond to create an unforgettable stay.
From the bustling Queen Victoria Market to the serene Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne offers a perfect balance of urban excitement and natural beauty.
If you’re eager to get planning, keep reading to discover some of the best family-friendly accommodation in Melbourne and get ready to book your stay.
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Melbourne CBD
Melbourne’s CBD (Central Business District) is a bustling family-friendly destination. Although there are lots of office spaces and government buildings around here, there are even more opportunities for shopping, dining and entertainment.
The CBD is known for its vibrant street art scene found among the winding alleys and laneways, such as Hosier Lane.
One thing families will love about Melbourne CBD is the proximity to gorgeous green open spaces. Places like the iconic Royal Botanic Gardens provide ample opportunities for children to play, explore, and enjoy picnics together.
You can also walk over the bridge crossing Yarra River or take a tram down Swanston St to the National Gallery of Victoria, which often has exhibitions suited to families of all ages.
Another plus is the Free Tram Zone all throughout the CBD as well as Docklands, making travel in this area free and convenient.
Laneways by Ovolo
Found within the maze-like laneways of Melbourne’s CBD is the aptly named Laneways by Ovolo. This eclectic hotel is impeccably designed with modern furnishings and quirky decor. When you stay with Ovolo, a tree is also planted on your behalf to give back to the environment.
There are board games available which reception can drop off at your room to keep you and the kids entertained when you’re not out sightseeing.
The Memphis Penthouse, Memphis Terrace and Uptown Two-Bedroom Suite are the ideal choices for a family stay. All feature large comfortable beds, a dining area, a kitchenette with a dishwasher and microwave, a flat-screen TV with cable, a minibar, and tea and coffee making facilities.
You can take advantage of the breakfast-to-go if you have a busy day ahead, as well as the Candy Bar located in the lobby available throughout the day. There is also a self-service laundry and a bistro-pub for a cosy dinner if you can’t decide where to go out.
Due to the location, you may be woken up by street noise such as rubbish collection in the early mornings. Noisy guests can sometimes be heard through the walls too.
Stamford Plaza Melbourne
At the beautiful “Paris end” of Little Collins Street among the high-end boutiques is Stamford Plaza Melbourne, the best family accommodation in Melbourne CBD for those looking to stay in luxury.
This 5-star hotel offers both modern, recently-renovated rooms as well as those that have a more traditional decor and design. There is 24-hour room service available, or you can dine in at the on-site Harry’s Bar and Restaurant. Guests can make use of the indoor pool and spa, as well as the spacious fitness centre.
The two and three-bedroom suites are perfect for larger families, fitting up to five and six guests respectively. These suites feature fully-equipped kitchens with a stovetop and dishwasher, and a full living room with a lounge and a flat-screen TV with cable channels.
The two-bedroom penthouse suite also comes with a spa bath and takes up two floors. Additionally, there’s the option of a one-bedroom twin suite that sleeps four and includes a spa bath as well. The walls here are soundproofed, so it’s an ideal place to stay if you or the kids are light sleepers.
A few downsides to mention are the smaller size of the bathrooms and the lack of variety at the breakfast buffet. If you plan on using the kitchen for cooking, you might also have to chase up reception if the proper cookware or cutlery is missing.
As mentioned earlier, some of the rooms are very old-fashioned, which may be an unexpected downside if you are expecting to stay in the more stylish suites and they all happen to be booked.
Rydges Melbourne
If you’re eager to visit Melbourne’s Chinatown, Rydges Melbourne puts you right at the entrance. This chic hotel is an excellent family accommodation, and the beautiful rooftop pool is a big advantage if you’re visiting in the summer.
Recently refurbished, the decor inside is very warm and inviting while giving touches of class and elegance.
The deluxe family suite comes with two extra-large double beds, a spacious bathroom with a separate walk-in shower and bathtub, a cosy lounge area, a flat-screen TV, a kettle and an iron.
As a bonus, the walls are soundproof, and the bathroom also has two sinks, so there won’t be any fighting to get ready in the morning. Many of the windows provide stunning views of the city skyline.
If you’re sensitive to light when trying to fall asleep, be sure to bring an eye mask, as the city lights outside tend to peek in through the curtains. This may be a concern if you have a child that requires blackout curtains.
Room service is a little hit-or-miss too, though the restaurant staff are happy to accommodate food allergies and can provide special meals for the kids.
Imagine Lighthouse
Less than a five-minute walk to the Queen Victoria Market is Imagine Lighthouse, a trendy and modern apart-hotel that both you and the kids will adore. Located at the north end of Elizabeth Street in Melbourne CBD, the apartments offer amazing skyline views of the city.
The hotel has an indoor pool, spa and sauna so you can relax and unwind once you get back from exploring.
Imagine Lighthouse is excellent if you are searching for Melbourne family hotels that can accommodate a larger group. Here, you can book a three-bedroom apartment that comes with three separate bedrooms and two bathrooms, fitting up to six people.
It’s perfect if you want to have adventures together during the day yet have your own space in the evenings. Two-bedroom apartments are also available if you’re a family of four.
There are fully-equipped kitchens with a stovetop and dishwasher, a living area, a dining table, flat-screen TVs, soundproof walls, and even more amenities.
Since the apartments can go all the way to the 68th floor, it can understandably take some time to get up and down the elevator. Keep in mind that it also takes a little while to have the $150 security deposit refunded.
You may also need to chase up the cleaning staff. Regardless of these small things, this is easily one of the best family accommodations in Melbourne.
Vibe Hotel Melbourne
Another stunning accommodation that offers family rooms is Vibe Hotel Melbourne, located at the corner of Queen Street and Flinders Street.
The hotel includes a fitness centre, a shared lounge, a restaurant and bar, an indoor swimming pool, and a delicious daily breakfast that caters to all diets, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free.
The convenient location makes it incredibly easy to hop on a train or a tram to explore anywhere in the city. Otherwise, the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium and the Southbank Promenade are just two of the amazing family-friendly attractions that are only a short walk away.
The family room at Vibe Hotel comes with two comfortable single beds and an extra-large double bed, soundproof walls, a comfy sofa, a flat-screen TV and more. The bathrooms have beautiful gold detailing, as well as two separate sinks.
The floor-to-ceiling windows offer gorgeous views of the surrounding high-rise buildings and the Yarra River.
Due to the hotel’s proximity to Flinders Street Station, you may be able to hear the passing trains at night, depending on what floor you’re on. Pool hours also close quite early, which is something to be aware of.
Docklands
Docklands is a waterfront precinct located just west of Melbourne’s CBD and is part of the city’s Free Tram Zone. It has transformed from an industrial area into a modern hub with a wide range of attractions suitable for families. From the Waterfront City Marina and Docklands Park to the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, there are plenty of fun and chill outdoor activities here. After a long day of seeing the city’s main attractions, you can sit by the harbour together and watch the mesmerising boats and lights on the water.
For indoor activities on a rainy-day, Docklands also has the Wonderland Junior Fun Park and the ArtVo Immersive Gallery. Families can find plenty of options for casual dining here too, with many venues offering kids’ menus and family-friendly environments.
Melbourne Marriott Hotel Docklands
One of the family hotels in Melbourne‘s Docklands is the well-known Marriott. This incredibly chic 5-star accommodation has a stunning rooftop infinity pool that looks out onto the city skyline, creating a memory you and the family won’t soon forget.
While each hotel room only fits two people, there are interconnecting rooms available, suiting parents travelling with older kids or teenagers. There are plenty of different room options, including twin rooms with two double beds.
Each room typically comes with a flat-screen TV, a table and chairs, a fridge, a kettle for making tea or coffee, an iron, a safety deposit box, and free toiletries. The spacious bathrooms have plenty of counter space, ideal for those who like to bring a lot of beauty products.
The breakfast buffet isn’t anything to write home about, so it’s best to head to any of Melbourne’s amazing cafes instead. The pool can also be a bit chilly depending on the time of year, despite being heated.
Best Western Melbourne City
If you’re after cheap accommodation in Melbourne for families, the Best Western Melbourne City is a good pick. It’s a three-minute walk from Southern Cross Station, so you can easily catch the SkyBus in from the airport.
It’s also only a short walk away from family-friendly attractions like the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, Batman Park, Marvel Stadium, the Southbank lookout, and the Melbourne Skydeck. The highlight of the hotel is the rooftop sundeck, and there’s a 24-hour front desk.
The standard trio room comes with either a single bed and a full-size bed or three singles. In the room there’ll be a flat-screen TV, a wardrobe, ironing facilities, a kettle for tea and coffee, and a mini fridge.
Although the rooms are quite simple and the bathrooms are on the smaller side, it’s not a problem if you just need somewhere safe and comfortable to sleep. Since the hotel has pet-friendly rooms, you may hear barking from dogs, as well as other outside noise like passing trams and trains.
Collingwood
Collingwood is an eclectic inner-city suburb of Melbourne, located northeast of the CBD. Popular with the younger crowd, it has transformed from a blue-collar working neighbourhood to a trendy area with countless cafes, quirky shops and interesting galleries.
As one of Melbourne’s oldest neighbourhoods, you can still see many historical buildings from the 19th-century, particularly along the popular Smith Street.
For families interested in trying out new cuisines and restaurants, Collingwood is also known for its diverse culinary scene. The suburb is well-connected to other popular areas of Melbourne via train or tram, making it easy to get around and see different attractions.
If you’re a family who loves the outdoors, Collingwood has several parks and green spaces to enjoy. The wonderful Collingwood Children’s Farm provides a unique opportunity to interact with farm animals, learn about sustainable farming practices, and enjoy nature walks along the Yarra River.
The nearby Edinburgh Gardens is another popular spot for families, offering ample space for picnics, playgrounds, and even a skate park.
Veriu Collingwood
Veriu Collingwood is a brand new boutique hotel that opened in May 2023, so you can expect a pristine and modern atmosphere. The hotel features a rooftop terrace with a bar and a heated swimming pool, providing a great spot to relax and enjoy the city views. Veriu also offers private parking and free bike rental.
The Dual Key Suite is suitable for families of four. This gorgeous apartment-style suite consists of two separate bedrooms, two bathrooms and two living rooms, perfect for a family with teenagers that like to have their separate space.
There is also a fully-equipped kitchen with a Nespresso machine, a washing machine, and plenty of free toiletries.
Note that reception opens later in the morning and is not available 24/7. You also have to check in before you can access the parking area. If you’re planning to bring a lot of luggage, you may have limited space for hanging up clothes.
lyf Collingwood Melbourne
Suitable for both long and short stays, Iyf Collingwood is surrounded by a hub of creative spaces, art galleries, and top foodie destinations, making it an exciting spot to stay in and explore.
If you’re after a good cheap family accommodation in Melbourne, prices here are more than reasonable, especially considering the location. There’s a 24-hour front desk here, and a shared lounge and terrace area.
The self-service laundry even has a Pac-Man arcade machine to keep the kids entertained while you do the washing.
The ‘Two of a Kind’ room option includes two queen-sized beds and all the necessary amenities, including a safety deposit box. Kids will love the quirky and colourful SMEG appliances in the kitchenette and the creatively-painted walls.
On the other hand, the rooms can be a little small for some and aren’t well soundproofed. When you want to get out and explore, bicycles are available to rent for free, or you can easily hop on the tram right at the corner. Not highly recommended for families with kids under 3 to 5-year-old.
St Kilda
St Kilda has a funky and trendy feel, making it an exciting place for families to wander around. For many, St Kilda is the best place to stay in Melbourne with family if you don’t wish to be directly in the city.
The suburb is known for St Kilda Beach, a perfect place for families to enjoy a day of sun, sand and swimming. You can also take a stroll along St Kilda Pier and admire the amazing views of the Melbourne CBD.
Of course, one of the main highlights of St Kilda is Luna Park. This iconic amusement park has been entertaining both the young and young at heart for generations. Yet, the area is also known for its vibrant cultural scene.
The St Kilda Esplanade Market is a great example of this, with local artists showcasing their handmade crafts, jewellery, clothing and more, making for wonderfully unique souvenirs. There are a few different tram lines that run through St Kilda, so it’s easy and convenient to get into the city centre.
Quest St Kilda Bayside
Quest St Kilda Bayside is a five-minute walk from St Kilda Beach and only 500 metres from the Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit.
It’s a great option for families that are visiting Melbourne for more than a few days, as you’ll have access to all the amenities required for a longer stay. The hotel has an outdoor pool, though it is only open during the warmer months.
The two-bedroom apartments fit up to five people, with two separate bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen with a stovetop and dishwasher, a separate laundry room, a dining table, two sofas and a TV.
The downside is that the apartment only comes with one bathroom, so you’ll have to take turns getting ready in the morning.
The fifth guest will also need to be on a fold-out bed, and the walls are a bit thin, so you may hear other guests. While the interiors are a little dated, there is everything you need here.
The Prince Hotel
Close to the Catani Gardens and the St Kilda Sea Baths is The Prince, an art deco gem. One way to describe this boutique hotel is unpretentious luxury. Located along the iconic Acland Street, it boasts three on-site restaurants that are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
While the rooms only accommodate two people, a fold-out bed can be arranged. The interiors are beautifully and thoughtfully designed with cosy touches.
The hotel provides spacious wardrobes, and the bathrooms in the suite and deluxe rooms also come with a bathtub. Unfortunately, noise can be heard from the hallways and the adjoining rooms, as well as from the road. There is also no lift access from the car park.
Added Extra: Areas to Avoid
While Melbourne tends to be very safe, there are some areas families might wish to avoid due to the nightclubs, crowds and other factors like noise pollution.
These include Lyon Street in Carlton and Bridge Road in Richmond, both of which can get overly busy and possibly overwhelming for kids.
Likewise, King Street in Melbourne CBD is known for its nightlife, with many pubs and clubs that wouldn’t be too suitable for families to stay near. Sticking with the above locations is highly recommended.
Final Thoughts: family accommodation melbourne
A family trip to Melbourne is an exciting adventure that won’t be soon forgotten. From the lively city streets of downtown to the lush parks and gardens that line the rivers, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
These family accommodation options in Melbourne provides all of the amenities you need for a comfortable stay while your family explores and experiences all that this wonderful city has to offer.
Book our family hotel today to get the best rate and make memories with your loved ones that will last a lifetime!
Read More about Melbourne:
- Where to Stay in Melbourne
- 10 touristy things to see and do in Melbourne
- 48 hours in Melbourne – A 2 day Itinerary
- Best Phillip Island Tours from Melbourne
- Best Yarra Valley Tours from Melbourne
- Best Great Ocean Road tours from Melbourne
- Best Route to take on the Great Ocean Road
- Our Top 10 things to see and do on the Great Ocean Road (mostly free!)
- The Great Ocean road from a Drivers Perspective
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