9 Riverside Quay, Southbank, Melbourne, Australia | (888) 989-6591
Conveniently located in Melbourne's Southbank suburb
Clean, modern rooms with kitchenettes
Restaurant serving buffet breakfast with hot and cold options
Coin-operated laundry room on site
Foxtel channels in rooms
Two conference rooms with capacity for up to 70 people
Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
Free Wi-Fi is limited and unreliable
No gym, pool, or full restaurant
Additional fee for breakfast and parking
This three-pearl chain hotel is a popular choice for travelers on a budget. It's ideally located in Melbourne's Southbank, within walking distance of many attractions in the Central Business District. Decor is simple and modern, and all 275 rooms are spacious and well-appointed -- featuring up-to-date technology such as LCD flatscreen TVs, air-conditioning, iPod docks, and free Wi-Fi. They also come with kitchenettes, including fridges, microwaves, and tea and coffee making facilities. Hotel facilities are lacking, with no pool or fitness center, which may be an issue for some. There is a breakfast restaurant, though that meal isn't included in rates (a bit disappointing for the chain). Travelers preferring a more central location should consider the Novotel on Collins Street, which adds a fitness center and a pool.
Scene
Simple, relaxed atmosphere and modern style, but a lack of frills
This comfortable, relatively affordable chain hotel appeals to a broad range of travelers, though there isn't a ton to do here aside from recharge after a day of sightseeing. The hotel has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with bright, modern decor that attracts a lot of large groups and business travelers. The distinctive, colorful exterior of the building has been carried through into the large hotel, with bright contemporary artworks adorning the walls and halls, and colorful orange couches lining the lobby. The front desk can get busy during the day, with many tour groups congregating in the lobby and on the communal couches. The large breakfast room can also be busy in the morning, though the hotel is quiet at night, making it an ideal retreat after a busy day exploring the city.
Location
Ideally located in Southbank, a 12-minute walk into the Central Business District
Situated on a quiet back street near the Yarra River in Southbank, this hotel has an ideal location for anyone exploring the city. There are plenty of food and entertainment options in the immediate area, with the promenade's cafes and restaurants just a short walk from the hotel. It's also well-connected transport-wise, with numerous tram stops nearby. Flinders Street Station is a seven-minute walk from the hotel and it's just five minutes farther to reach the heart of the CBD. Expect a 10-minute walk to Bourke Street Mall. There are plenty of entertainment options within walking distance too. The Crown Casino is just a five-minute walk away, and the Eureka Skydeck is only a one-minute stroll. Rod Laver Arena is five minutes away by cab, and Etihad Stadium is a 10-minute drive. Melbourne Airport is a 35-minute drive, depending on traffic.
Rooms
Simple, sharp rooms, with modern amenities and kitchenettes
The Travelodge Southbank offers 275 large, clean, and simply decorated rooms with double or twin beds, white bed spreads, and light wooden furniture. The decor is brightened up by colorful, contemporary artwork on the walls, and warm orange fabrics and upholstery. Essential amenities are all included, including air-conditioning, safes, alarm clocks, and phones. Modern technology includes 32-inch LCD TVs with Foxtel channels, iPod docking stations, and free Wi-Fi. All rooms also have small kitchenettes that are ideal for families and budget travelers, featuring microwaves, fridges, cutlery, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Bathrooms are small, clean and simple, with white sinks, toilets, glass-enclosed showers, and free toiletries. Noise and disturbance is at a minimum, with full soundproofing in each room, as well as blackout drapes and curtains. Nice city views are available, but only in some rooms.
Features
Free, sometimes unreliable Wi-Fi and a breakfast-only restaurant
Travelers looking for a long list of hotel facilities might be disappointed with what the Travelodge Southbank has to offer. There is no pool or fitness center, and the on-site restaurant is limited to breakfast only. A buffet breakfast with hot and cold options is served daily, though this comes at an additional fee. The hotel also has two spacious conference rooms, with a capacity of up to 70 people. Other features include a computer station, vending machines, and coin-operated laundry rooms. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, though it's limited and can be unreliable. On-site parking is also available, though this comes at an additional fee.