Melbourne offers a wide range of cheap accommodation, especially in the CBD and surrounding districts like Carlton and Fawkner. Budget hotels here typically provide free WiFi, private bathrooms, and air conditioning, with many including breakfast, parking, or kitchenettes. Staying in the free tram zone (covering the CBD) allows easy access to landmarks like Queen Victoria Market, Flinders Street Station, and Southern Cross Station without extra transport costs. Expect nightly rates starting from around $80-$120 for basic rooms at brands like ibis Budget and Econo Lodge, with higher-end budget options like Best Western Melbourne City offering rooftop sundecks and very good breakfasts.
Top-rated options include The Courthouse Hotel (Superb, 91 rating) in North Melbourne with a restaurant and bar, and Best Western Melbourne City (Very Good, 80 rating) with a terrace and free tram access. For longer stays, Arrow on Swanston in Carlton provides self-contained apartments with a fitness centre and outdoor pool, ideal for academics or hospital visitors. Ibis Styles Kingsgate Hotel is a smart choice near Southern Cross Station with a fitness centre and good breakfast. Budget travellers can also consider Together Co-Living Melbourne near the airport with co-living apartments and an outdoor pool, or ibis Budget Fawkner for a simple stay north of the city. Most hotels offer 24-hour reception and laundry facilities.