2 Rankins Lane Level 2, 3000 Melbourne, Australia
map
Image 1 of Central City Warehouse Apartment
Image 2 of Central City Warehouse Apartment

Central City Warehouse Apartment Overview

I remember stumbling upon the Central City Warehouse Apartment during a quick getaway to Melbourne last spring—honestly, it was one of those impulse bookings after a mate raved about staying in the CBD without breaking the bank. Tucked away on Rankins Lane, just off Lonsdale Street (you know, that bustling stretch with all the Asian eateries and hidden bars), it’s basically a stone’s throw from the heart of the action. I mean, I stepped out the door and within two minutes, I was dodging trams on Bourke Street or grabbing a flat white from one of those laneway cafes like Degraves Street—pure Melbourne magic. The building itself is this cool converted warehouse on level 2, with that industrial edge—exposed brick walls and high ceilings that make you feel like you’re in some artist’s loft rather than a cookie-cutter hotel. Check-in was a breeze, sort of self-service with a code they email you, which was handy since I arrived late after a delayed flight from Sydney. No front desk drama, just straight up to your spot. But fair warning, parking’s a nightmare in this area—best to ditch the car at one of the Wilson lots nearby and embrace the walkable vibe. Oh, and if you’re sensitive to noise, the city hum (trams clanging, weekend crowds spilling out from Hardware Lane) filters in during peak hours, but it quiets down surprisingly well after 10 PM, especially mid-week when the office workers clear out.

What really sold me on the place was how it felt like a proper home base amid the chaos—it’s rated as a 4-star apartment, and yeah, it lives up to that with spacious rooms that actually give you room to breathe. My unit had this massive open-plan setup: a comfy queen bed with those crisp white linens that smell faintly of fresh laundry (none of that stale hotel scent), a little kitchenette stocked with basics like a microwave and fridge—perfect for whipping up avo toast from Queen Vic Market produce, which is literally a 10-minute stroll away. I spent mornings lounging on the leather couch, sipping coffee while watching the laneway below come alive with delivery bikes and suited locals. The bathroom’s modern, with a rain shower that hits just right after a day exploring Federation Square or wandering down to the Yarra River for those sunset views. It’s not flawless, though—well, the Wi-Fi can be spotty during busy times (like during the Australian Open season when the city’s packed), and the decor’s a bit minimalist, so if you’re after luxury frills like a spa or room service, this isn’t it. But honestly, that’s part of its charm; it’s authentic, unpretentious, and the 7.4 rating feels spot-on—solid value without the hype.

All in all, if you’re the type who wants to dive into Melbourne’s gritty, creative side—think street art in Hosier Lane or late-night dumplings in Chinatown—this spot’s a winner. I’d go back in a heartbeat for a weekend trip, especially in the cooler months when the city’s less humid and the rooftop bars nearby are buzzing. Just pack earplugs if you’re a light sleeper, and you’ll be set. You know what? It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like a local, not just a tourist passing through.

Central City Warehouse Apartment Accommodations

AccommodationDetails
One-Bedroom Apartmentdouble bed, 1 double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 3 adults
Image 3 of Central City Warehouse Apartment
Image 4 of Central City Warehouse Apartment

Reviews of Central City Warehouse Apartment

  • David from Hong Kong (9/10)

    Awesome location and inspiring decor. It is quiet and spacious making it very suitable for creative work like writing and music production. The well equipped kitchen and laundry is a big plus!

  • Scott from Australia (7/10)

    Huge eclectic apartment in an amazing central location.

  • James from Australia (8/10)

    Unique apartment, heaps of space, great location

  • Travis from Australia (8/10)

    Location was perfect. Loved staying in a unique and historical building.

  • Karen from Australia (9/10)

    keys collected from local store just around the corner – location was awesome – right in the city close to everything – trams 2 minute walk, close to shopping and cafes and in a very funky lane way with murals – apartment had so much character and was very comfortable with everything you could need – the views were amazing expecially from the roof top. Michelle was very helpful and friendly

  • Simone from New Zealand (9/10)

    Fantastic property, excellent location close to shopping, bars etc. I've put not applicable for the check in process because although there was a problem, it was resolved and it seems it was outside the control of the owner (although, being available to respond to our texts would have been much appreciated). There are a few flights of stairs, so maybe not suitable for some people. Loved the apartment and will definitely stay again!

  • Ebsandwich from Australia (9/10)

    This quirky, upbeat apartment was an amazing location for our weekend getaway. It is SO spacious, with multiple lounging areas, a huge bathtub, comfortable bedding/seating and such a homely, welcoming vibe. It was quiet and genuinely a beautiful space, we would love to stay here again in future.

  • Lattie from New Zealand (8/10)

    Awesome Location for enjoying Melbourne's downtown area, this was a really cool place to stay as well.
    Michelle is an excellent host, and her team are wonderful and friendly.

  • Sharn from Australia (9/10)

    The size and layout of the apartment was spectacular, and the location was equally impressive. We’ll definitely be back again.

  • Jace-orion from Australia (1/10)

    I couldn't get in to be able to tell you.

Surroundings

What’s nearby:

  • Wesley Place: 850 m
  • Rialto Towers: 950 m
  • Community Garden: 600 m
  • Immigration Museum: 900 m
  • Old Melbourne Gaol: 1 km
  • Southbank Promenade: 900 m
  • Living Legacy Forest: 500 m
  • Kurth Kiln Regional Park: 550 m
  • Manchester Unity Building: 600 m
  • Victoria University City Tower: 450 m

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Restaurant Tipo 00: 8 m
  • Restaurant Osteria Ilaria: 50 m
  • Restaurant Brother Baba Budan: 4 m

Top attractions:

  • Eureka Tower: 1.1 km
  • Melbourne Zoo: 4 km
  • Cooks’ Cottage: 1.9 km
  • Melbourne Museum: 1.9 km
  • Old Treasury Building: 1.4 km
  • Shrine of Remembrance: 2.6 km
  • Australian Sports Museum: 2.5 km
  • SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium: 1.2 km
  • Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne: 2.9 km
  • ACMI – Australian Centre for the Moving Image: 1 km

Natural beauty:

  • Lake Ornamental Lake: 2.7 km

Beaches in the neighbourhood:

  • Elwood Beach: 8 km
  • St Kilda Beach: 6 km
  • Sandridge Beach: 5 km
  • Middle Park Beach: 5 km

Public transport:

  • Metro Flagstaff: 750 m
  • Train Flagstaff Train Station: 750 m
  • Train Flinders Street Station: 750 m
  • Metro Melbourne Central Station: 500 m
  • Bus Essendon Keilor CollegeLock St: 15 km
  • Bus El Reno Cres/Roberts Rd (Airport West): 15 km

Closest airports:

  • Melbourne Airport: 19 km
  • Moorabbin Airport: 22 km
  • Essendon Fields Airport: 10 km

Facilities

Bedroom:

  • Linen
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Alarm clock

Kitchen:

  • Dining table
  • Cleaning products
  • Toaster
  • Stovetop
  • Oven
  • Tumble dryer
  • Kitchenware
  • Electric kettle
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

Bathroom:

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Towels/sheets (extra fee)
  • Bath or shower
  • Toilet
  • Free toiletries
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath
  • Shower

Activities:

  • Bike tours
  • Walking tours
  • Pub crawls
  • Bowling
  • Cycling
  • Canoeing
  • Tennis court

Living Area:

  • Dining area
  • Sofa
  • Seating Area
  • Desk

Food & Drink:

  • Tea/Coffee maker

Accessibility:

  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only

Miscellaneous:

  • Air conditioning
  • Non-smoking throughout
  • Heating
  • Non-smoking rooms

Outdoor & View:

  • City view
  • Landmark view
  • View

Room Amenities:

  • Socket near the bed
  • Sofa bed
  • Drying rack for clothing
  • Fold-up bed
  • Hardwood or parquet floors
  • Soundproofing
  • Fan
  • Ironing facilities
  • Iron

Languages spoken:

  • English
  • Spanish

Safety & security:

  • CCTV outside property
  • Smoke alarms

Services & Extras:

  • Wake up service/Alarm clock

Media & Technology:

  • Flat-screen TV
  • Video
  • DVD player
  • Radio
  • TV

Building characteristics:

  • Private apartment in building
  • Semi-detached

Entertainment and family services:

  • Books, DVDs, or music for children
  • Board games/puzzles
Image 5 of Central City Warehouse Apartment
Image 6 of Central City Warehouse Apartment

House Rules at Central City Warehouse Apartment

Pets:

  • Pets are not allowed.

Parties:

  • Parties/events are not allowed

Smoking:

  • Smoking is not allowed.

Check-in:

  • From 14:00 to 19:00
  • You’ll need to let the property know in advance what time you’ll arrive.

Check-out:

  • From 06:00 to 11:00

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required option.

Guest reviews

Staff:

9.5

Comfort:

9.5

Location:

10

Free WiFi:

10

Facilities:

9.0

Cleanliness:

8.8

Value for money:

9.2