2 BR apt close to Southern Cross

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to 601 Little Lonsdale Street after a long flight into Melbourne – you know, that moment when you’re dragging your suitcase and just hoping the place lives up to the hype. This 2 BR apartment, tucked right in the heart of the CBD, is literally a stone’s throw from Southern Cross Station, which made it a breeze to hop off the SkyBus and walk over without dealing with taxis or trams in the rain (and yeah, Melbourne weather can turn on a dime, especially in spring). The building itself is one of those modern high-rises that blend into the cityscape – not flashy, but solid, with a secure entry that buzzes you in after a quick code from the host. Check-in was straightforward; no front desk fuss, just a lockbox for keys, which honestly felt more like crashing at a friend’s place than a hotel. I mean, it’s rated 9.5 for a reason – everything was spotless, and stepping inside, the space opened up into this airy living area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bustle below. You get that faint hum of the city, like distant trams rattling along Spencer Street, but it’s not overwhelming; more like white noise that lulls you to sleep at night.

What really sold me on this spot – well, besides the fact it’s a proper two-bedroom setup, perfect if you’re traveling with mates or family and don’t want to cram into a single room – is how it feels lived-in yet polished. The kitchen’s fully kitted out with a Nespresso machine (a lifesaver for those early mornings before hitting the Queen Victoria Market, just a 10-minute stroll up Elizabeth Street for fresh brekkie supplies). The beds are comfy, with that crisp linen smell you only get in well-maintained places, and there’s even a small balcony where I sat with a coffee, watching the office crowd hustle to Flagstaff Gardens nearby – it’s one of those underrated green spots locals escape to for picnics, especially on weekends when the area’s quieter. Parking’s a bit of a squeeze if you’ve got a car; street spots are metered and fill up fast during peak hours, so I’d recommend the nearby Wilson lots or just embracing public transport. Oh, and a minor heads-up: the building’s elevators can get busy around rush hour, but nothing that ruins the vibe. Sensory-wise, it’s all about that fresh, neutral scent inside contrasting the occasional whiff of street food from the laneways – think dumplings from Chinatown, which is basically around the corner on Little Bourke.

Honestly, if you’re after a 4-star stay that doesn’t feel stuffy, this apartment’s a gem for longer visits to Melbourne. It’s got that authentic city immersion without the isolation – you can wander to Docklands for harbor views or catch a game at Marvel Stadium in under 15 minutes. I stayed during a quieter mid-week in autumn, when the leaves in the gardens turn golden, and it was peaceful; summers might amp up the noise from festivals, but that’s Melbourne for you. You’d care if you want space to spread out, cook your own meals (saving a ton on eating out), and wake up feeling like a local rather than a tourist. I’d book it again in a heartbeat – just pack earplugs if you’re a light sleeper, you know?

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $186. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 double bed and 1 single bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Superb – Qian from Australia – 23 June 2025 (9/10)

  The apartment was super clean , and very comfortable. My little girl loved her bed. Great location closed to very things you needed. The
  master room had a great view of city walk . Walked to skybus in Spencer Street in 5mins . Basically We loved very bits of our staying.

• Exceptional – Tan from Vietnam – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Phòng rộng rãi, sạch sẽ và đầy đủ tiện nghi.
  Xung quanh có nhà hàng, quán cà phê, siêu thị.
  Sát bên trạm xe tàu điện, xuống phố Tàu chừng 10 phút là tới. Tòa căn hộ còn rất mới và có ban công.
  
  Chủ nhà thân thiện và hỗ trợ hết mình.
  Recommended cho mọi người.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities