Elegant apartment with balcony and free parking

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the Elegant Apartment with Balcony and Free Parking during a quick trip to Melbourne last spring, and honestly, it was one of those finds that makes you feel like you’ve cracked the code on city stays. Tucked away on Little Lonsdale Street – that’s right in the heart of the CBD, just a stone’s throw from the Supreme Court and all those bustling legal offices – it’s the kind of spot where you can feel the pulse of the city without being overwhelmed by it. I mean, arriving after a long flight, I was dreading the usual hassle of finding parking in Melbourne’s chaotic center, but nope, they’ve got free spots right there, which is a godsend because circling for a meter on Lonsdale or Bourke Street can eat up half your afternoon (and your wallet). The check-in was smooth as – self-service with a code, but there’s someone on call if you need them, and it felt more like borrowing a mate’s place than a stuffy hotel vibe. Stepping inside, the place hits you with this clean, airy scent, like fresh linen mixed with a hint of eucalyptus from the nearby Flagstaff Gardens, which are literally a five-minute stroll away if you fancy a quiet morning walk.

What really sold me, though, was how it balances that elegant feel without trying too hard – it’s a solid 4-star setup, but with thoughtful touches that make it stand out. The apartment itself is spacious, with these high ceilings and polished wooden floors that creak just a bit underfoot, adding to that lived-in charm. The balcony? Oh man, it’s a game-changer – I spent evenings out there sipping coffee, watching the trams rattle down Little Lonsdale and catching glimpses of the sunset over the rooftops toward the Docklands. Inside, you’ve got a full kitchen (stocked with basics, which saved me from overpriced room service), a comfy king bed that actually lets you sleep through the night despite the occasional hum of city traffic below – well, sort of; it can get a tad noisy during rush hour if you’re a light sleeper, but earplugs sorted that out for me. And let’s not forget the little perks: fast Wi-Fi that didn’t drop once while I was streaming, and a bathroom with those rain showerheads that make you linger longer than you should. It’s close enough to Hardware Lane for grabbing laneway coffees or dumplings – I wandered over for brekkie at one of those hidden spots locals rave about – and if you’re into markets, Queen Victoria is just up the road, buzzing especially on weekends with fresh produce and that unmistakable aroma of street food stalls firing up.

All in all, with its 9.5 rating, this place earns every bit of it for travelers who want more than a generic crash pad. It’s perfect for couples or solo explorers hitting Melbourne in the milder months – avoid peak summer if you hate the crowds, though, as the streets get packed. Sure, it might not have a pool or fancy spa (who needs that when you’re steps from the Yarra River paths?), but the free parking and balcony views make it a steal. If you’re planning a trip, I’d say book it – you’ll thank me when you’re unwinding with a glass of local wine, feeling like you’ve got your own slice of Melbourne without the fuss.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $178. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Best experience for a stay in Melbourne. Most comfortable beds and airy bedrooms. – Aaron from Australia – 16 June 2025 (10/10)

  We loved the entire apartment. It was a pleasure staying somewhere where the owners obviously care about their guests and want them to have a great stay.

• Tastefully decorated from a time gone by when the world spun a lot slower. – Julie-anne from Australia – 14 April 2025 (10/10)

  Once we actually picked up the keys, it was relatively easy to get into the car park and building. The port and chocolates at the end of the night was a lovely touch, sitting out on the balcony watching the night lights. The linen and beds were very comfortable. Lots of lovely touches in the apartment.
  
  What could be improved: Some photos actually showing you which roller door and laneway to access the car park would have been helpful, given we checked in after a few drinks!

• Exceptional – Alison from New Zealand – 2 April 2025 (10/10)

  Quirky and elegant

• Exceptional – Charmian from Australia – 24 March 2025 (10/10)

  Loved the quirky old style furnishings and all the little personal touches
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• A comfy retreat from Melbourne forays – Katrina from Australia – 22 March 2025 (8/10)

  The personal touches and generosity with the decor is a big plus. The beds were comfy too and the air cond worked.
  
  What could be improved: It was super hot when we were there which made a walk to and from the cbd and beyond to the arts precinct, seem difficult. We caught the free tourist tram but be aware it has no AC unlike the other trams and the driver stopped in a weird spot near the treasury for 8 mins on every circuit leaving everyone sweltering. Perhaps some advice about best methods to traverse Melbourne? The apartment is v convenient to Southern Cross Station and Little Korea.

• Exceptional – Jonathan from Australia – 2 March 2025 (10/10)

  What a great place to stay, cool style, comfortable bed, good location in the city. 10/10 can recommend.

• Unique and beautiful place to stay in a great location – Dana from Australia – 18 February 2025 (10/10)

  Lots of little touches made the stay so much more than if we stayed in a hotel. Very elegant and quirky apartment in a fabulous location.

• A beautiful homely apartment – Liz from Australia – 9 February 2025 (10/10)

  Everything. The decor is stunning, the beds and pillows are comfortable and they have thought of everything to make you feel at home and comfortable.

• Great location. Clean. Comfortable beds and pillows. Nice linen. – Cameron from Australia – 26 January 2025 (8/10)

  Great location. Clean. Comfortable beds and pillows. Nice linen.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• A charming inner city escape to another time and era. – Sharon from Australia – 18 December 2024 (9/10)

  The stunning apartment, themed 1920s-30s. The amount of detail that was lovingly put into this place, to portray the early 20th century theme! There was no holding back on detail, yet it is still a very comfortable and clean apartment, with the mod cons of today!
  The pillow menu!
  The generosity of the host in providing complimentary port, and a lovely unexpected gift.
  The charming view of the city.
  
  What could be improved: The fact that I only booked for one night! Wish I had booked for longer.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities