Covid restrictions for international travel are finally easing up, with many people itching to get out and explore the world again. Australia had some of the strictest pandemic restrictions, forcing returning citizens to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival, and the government halted tourism completely. Finally, in February of 2022, Australia lifted restrictions and reopened for fully vaccinated travelers.
Melbourne is a city you won’t want to miss when planning your Australian adventure: enjoy some of the best coffee in the world, take in the famous street art, enjoy the beach, or go penguin spotting at St Kilda. Don’t let your heavy suitcase hold you back if you’re just passing through. Take advantage of luggage storage in Melbourne and experience everything this city offers.
You’ll probably want to hang in this quirky Australian capital for more than a day – but is a hotel or an AirBnB more suited to your needs? This guide can help you decide where to stay in Melbourne.
Price
Summer is the most popular time to visit Melbourne. Australia is in the opposite hemisphere as Europe and North America, so to get the best beach days, you’ll need to travel from December-February. The prices for both AirBnBs and hotels are higher during peak season, so plan around that if you are looking for more economical pricing.
According to Trip Advisor, the average hotel price during peak season in Melbourne is $168/night. A lot of hotels offer modern decor, and many even include breakfast. Rooms sleep 2-4 people, which may add up if you are traveling with family or a large group.
AirBnB prices have more of a range. You can find private rooms for as low as $40/night or a chic townhouse with four queen beds that can sleep up to 8 people for about $220/night. This option can make traveling alone or with family a little more cost-effective.
Group Size
The Solo Traveler
If you want privacy, a hotel will probably be your best option. A private room in an AirBnB can help cut costs; however, you will share the common areas with a stranger. Sometimes this can work out great, and you find a travel buddy for life. Consider if the risk is worth the lower price tag.
Couples
There is not much difference in price between AirBnBs and hotel rooms when traveling as a couple. You can find a variety of one-bedroom apartments at a reasonable price on AirBnB. You and your beau won’t have to share your space with a stranger and have the chance to play house in a new city. However, hotels can be a little more reliable regarding linens, comfort, and other essentials.
Large Groups
Renting a house on AirBnB is perfect when traveling with large groups or families. If you have small children, it can be nice to feel like you have a home away from home. Or, if you are planning a bachelor or bachelorette party, having an AirBnB as a home base can keep the party going all night. Just be sure to adhere to guest count rules to avoid extra fees, be aware of noise ordinances, and clean up yourselves.
Amenities
Hotel
If you are looking for a traditional vacation, a hotel is probably the best option for your trip to Melbourne. When you choose a hotel, you’ll be guaranteed to have essentials like sheets, linens, and a hairdryer. Many include a pool, spa, gym, and concierge service. If you want to relax in the lap of luxury, a hotel will better serve your travel needs.
AirBnB
AirBnB makes it easy to search through available stays based on the amenities you desire. Simply set filters like “private home” or “pool” to see what pricing options are available to you. Since many AirBnBs are also residences, they will sometimes include a washer and dryer, which can be very helpful for people on longer adventures.
Whether you choose a shared or private residence, when you select an AirBnB for your stay in Melbourne, you’ll have access to a kitchen. Cooking for yourself can help you save money since you won’t have to eat out for every meal.
Duration of Stay
When deciding if a hotel or AirBnB best suits your upcoming trip to Melbourne, the last thing to consider is how long you plan to spend in the city. Melbourne has been voted the most livable city in the world more than once – so you may want to stay awhile.
You may be more comfortable in a hotel for a trip lasting a week or less. If you stay in Melbourne for longer than a week, an AirBnB will provide all the comfort of home. You can do your laundry, cook in the kitchen, and enjoy Melbourne like a local.
